What Is Lipase in a Blood Test?
Lipase is produced exclusively by the pancreas and breaks down fats.
Normal Range
- 13–60 U/L
- Above 3× normal suggests pancreatitis
Elevated Lipase Causes
- Acute pancreatitis — primary use
- Chronic pancreatitis
- Pancreatic cancer
- Gallstones
- Certain medications
Lipase vs Amylase
- Lipase more specific to pancreas
- Amylase can rise from salivary gland issues
- Lipase stays elevated longer
Source: NLM MedlinePlus, American Association for Clinical Chemistry.
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