Test Overview

A lipase test measures the amount of this enzyme in a blood sample. High amounts of lipase may be found in the blood when the pancreas is damaged or when the tube leading from the pancreas (pancreatic duct) to the beginning of the small intestine is blocked.

Why It Is Done

A lipase test is done to:

• Check for pancreatitis and other diseases of the pancreas.
• See if the treatment for pancreatitis is working.
• Help check for cystic fibrosis or see if treatment for it is working.

How To Prepare

Do not eat or drink anything except water for 8 to 12 hours before having a lipase test.

How It Is Done

A health professional uses a needle to take a blood sample, usually from the arm.

How It Feels

When a blood sample is taken, you may feel nothing at all from the needle. Or you might feel a quick sting or pinch.

Risks

There is very little chance of having a problem from this test. When a blood sample is taken, a small bruise may form at the site.

Results

Results are normally available within 12 hours.

Normal

Each lab has a different range for what's normal. Your lab report should show the range that your lab uses for each test. The normal range is just a guide. Your doctor will also look at your results based on your age, health, and other factors. A value that isn't in the normal range may still be normal for you.

High values

A high lipase level may be caused by:

• Diseases of the pancreas, such as pancreatitis or cancer of the pancreas.
• Problems with the gallbladder, such as gallstones and inflammation (cholecystitis).
• Chronic kidney disease.
• Problems with the intestines, such as bowel blockage (obstruction) or tissue death (infarction).
• Infection, inflammation, or cancer of a salivary gland.
• Peptic ulcer disease.
• Primary biliary cirrhosis, a serious condition that damages the liver and keeps it from working the way it should.
• Substance use disorder.