A lipase blood test measures the amount of lipase in your blood. Abnormal levels of this enzyme in the bloodstream can indicate underlying health issues.
The Role of Lipase and Test Purpose
Lipase is an enzyme that plays a role in the body’s digestive processes. Primarily produced by the pancreas, located behind the stomach, smaller amounts are also made in the salivary glands and stomach. Its main function is to break down triglycerides (a type of fat) into fatty acids and glycerol. These components are then absorbed by the small intestine for energy.
A lipase blood test helps diagnose and monitor conditions affecting the pancreas. When the pancreas is damaged or inflamed, as in acute pancreatitis, lipase can leak into the bloodstream, leading to elevated levels. A healthcare professional might order a lipase test for symptoms like severe upper abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, fever, or unexplained weight loss.
Interpreting Lipase Blood Test Results
Normal lipase levels vary between laboratories, typically ranging from 0 to 160 units per liter (U/L). It is important to discuss your specific lab’s reference ranges with a healthcare provider for accurate interpretation. Factors such as age, gender, and overall health can influence what is considered a normal result for an individual.
Significantly elevated lipase levels, especially those three or more times higher than the normal range, suggest acute pancreatitis. In acute pancreatitis, lipase levels typically rise within a few hours of symptom onset, peak around 24 hours, and can remain elevated for 7 to 14 days. While acute pancreatitis is the most common cause, other conditions can also lead to elevated lipase, including chronic pancreatitis, pancreatic cancer, gallstones, kidney failure, bowel obstruction, peptic ulcers, and certain medications.
Low lipase levels are less commonly tested and hold less clinical significance for diagnosing specific pancreatic conditions. However, consistently low levels, especially those near zero, might indicate permanent damage to the lipase-producing cells in the pancreas. This can occur in chronic conditions like cystic fibrosis or severe chronic pancreatitis, where the pancreas’s ability to produce digestive enzymes is impaired. Test results are always interpreted in conjunction with a patient’s symptoms, medical history, and other diagnostic tests to arrive at a comprehensive diagnosis.