What is the Lipase Test? Why is the test done? Everything around this, that you should know, in this post, and of course our doctors are always there to help you. Just fill in your details in the form down below and we will answer all your questions for FREE
What is a lipase test?
This lipase test measures the level of protein in the blood.
Also Read: Pancreatitis
What is lipase?
Lipase is the type of digestive enzyme that helps the body to digest fats. Lipase enzyme is secreted by the pancreas, salivary gland, and stomach.
What is the normal range of lipase?
Adults: 10 to 140 U/L
Above 60: 25 to 151 U/L
Why is it done?
A lipase test may be done to check the various health condition:
- To help diagnose the pancreatic condition (acute pancreatitis)
- To monitor the chronic diseases that affect the pancreas like:
- Cystic fibrosis
- Cystic disease
- Celiac disease
A lipase test is used to diagnose other conditions like pancreatic cysts, Crohn’s disease, peritonitis, and celiac disease.
When do I need to perform this test?
This test is to be done if you have symptoms of pancreatic problems. The symptoms include:
- Pain in the epigastrium that radiates to the backside.
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Fever
- Rapid heartbeat
- Swollen or tender belly
What does a high level of lipase indicate?
A high level of lipase is a sign of acute pancreatitis. It is caused by such conditions:
- Disease of pancreas
- Chronic kidney disease
- Peptic ulcer
- Gallbladder disease
- Intestinal problems, like blocked intestine
- Diabetes
- Salivary gland disorders such as infection or cancer
- Alcohol use disorder
What does a low level of lipase indicate?
If the lipase level is lower than the normal range then it may be a sign of permanent damage to cells in the pancreas that make lipase. This may be happening in certain chronic diseases such as chronic pancreatitis and cystic fibrosis.
Also Read: Diabetes insipidus
For more information, you can visit medlineplus.gov and webmd.com.
