Pancreatic lipase

Lipase is an enzyme produced by the pancreas involved in the digestion of fats.

Normally, lipase levels in the blood are low, but may increase in case of damage to pancreatic cells or obstruction of the pancreatic duct due, for example, to stones, in response to kidney diseases or pancreatic cancers.

Testing of lipase levels is mainly prescribed to identify and monitor any pancreatitis or other pancreatic-related diseases.

Generally, the lipase test is prescribed together with the blood amylase test, which is non-specific but sensitive to diseases affecting this gland. The lipase test, on the other hand, is more specific and may serve to identify not only acute pancreatitis but also diseases associated with alcohol abuse.