Lipase
Lipase is a digestive enzyme produced primarily by the pancreas that breaks down dietary triglycerides into fatty acids and glycerol. Small amounts are also produced by the tongue, stomach, and liver. Lipase enters the blood when pancreatic tissue is damaged or inflamed.
Why it matters: Lipase is a sensitive and specific blood marker for acute pancreatitis — generally more reliable than amylase. It rises within hours of pancreatic injury and can stay raised for one to two weeks. A markedly raised lipase is strongly associated with acute pancreatitis.
May increase with:
May decrease with:
What is Lipase?
Lipase is a digestive enzyme produced primarily by the pancreas that breaks down dietary triglycerides into fatty acids and glycerol. Small amounts are also produced by the tongue, stomach, and liver. Lipase enters the blood when pancreatic tissue is damaged or inflamed.
What might a high or low Lipase mean?
Lipase is a sensitive and specific blood marker for acute pancreatitis — generally more reliable than amylase. It rises within hours of pancreatic injury and can stay raised for one to two weeks. A markedly raised lipase is strongly associated with acute pancreatitis.
What is the typical reference range for Lipase?
The general-population reference range shown here is < 60 U/L. Reference ranges describe the general population and are not a personal target — discuss your results with your physician.
What can affect Lipase?
It may be higher with: Acute pancreatitis (primary diagnostic marker), Chronic pancreatitis (moderate elevation), Pancreatic cancer, Biliary obstruction (gallstones), Kidney disease (reduced clearance), Bowel obstruction, Diabetic ketoacidosis, Medications (opioids, thiazides). It may be lower with: Chronic pancreatic insufficiency, Cystic fibrosis, Advanced chronic pancreatitis (burned-out gland).