Lipase

Lipase is a digestive enzyme that helps your body digest fat. The pancreas, an organ behind the lower part of your abdomen, produces most lipase. It is also made by your salivary (spit) glands and the stomach, and a small amount is also present in the blood. 

If there is a(n) injury/infection/disease, the function of the pancreas can be impaired, which can increase or decrease the production of lipase. An elevated level of lipase may indicate pancreatic diseases like blocked duct or pancreatic cancer, peptic ulcer, gallbladder disease, etc. At the same time, a low level of lipase may be a sign of permanent damage to the pancreatic cells that make lipase. This may happen in certain chronic (long-lasting) diseases, such as cystic fibrosis.

You may need the Lipase test when you experience symptoms such as pain in the upper abdomen that may go to the back, tenderness in the stomach, nausea, pale stool, a full or bloated feeling, jaundice, or the yellowing of the eyes, rapid pulse or heartbeat, and fever. Your doctor may also order this test to check your treatment response. Overnight fasting is preferred but not mandatory for this test. If you are having the Lipase test to assess pancreatic health, you may be asked to avoid alcohol for 24 hours prior to the test, as alcohol consumption can elevate lipase levels and interfere with accurate results.

Test result ranges are approximate and may differ slightly between labs depending on the methodology and laboratory guidelines. Talk to your doctor about your specific test results. The results will help them determine your medical condition, make recommendations for lifestyle modifications such as diet and exercise, decide whether or not medication will be required to manage your condition and formulate an overall treatment plan.