Lipase Test

Why this test may be ordered

• To help diagnose diseases of the pancreas, especially acute (sudden) pancreatitis.
• To check if treatment for pancreatic diseases is working.
• To help diagnose and monitor chronic diseases that affect the pancreas, such as cystic fibrosis, Crohn's disease, and celiac disease.
• To help diagnose injury or blockage of the intestines.
• To help diagnose peritonitis (inflammation of the lining of the abdominal wall).

Preparation and collection

You may need to fast (not eat or drink) for 8–12 hours before the test. Your provider will tell you if you need to stop taking any medicines before the test. Do not stop any medicines unless your provider tells you to.

blood draw

There is very little risk to having a blood test. You may have slight pain or bruising at the spot where the needle was put in, but most symptoms go away quickly.

Understanding results

A lipase test measures the level of lipase in your blood. It is normal to have a small amount of lipase in your blood. Higher or lower levels may indicate a problem with your pancreas or other organs. Your provider will interpret your results in the context of your overall health.

• Usually a sign of acute pancreatitis, a sudden inflammation of the pancreas.: Very high level of lipase Limitation: False positives can occur due to medications. A very high level is usually a sign of acute pancreatitis, but not a confirmed diagnosis without further evaluation. Next step: Your provider may recommend imaging or other tests to confirm the diagnosis and determine treatment.
• Can be caused by pancreatic diseases (blocked duct, pancreatic cancer), chronic kidney disease, peptic ulcer, gallbladder disease, intestinal problems (blocked intestine), diabetes, salivary gland disorders, alcohol use disorder, or certain medications.: Higher than normal level (but not very high) Limitation: This range includes many possible causes. Some conditions may require further testing, and some elevations may be temporary or medication-related. Next step: Your provider may suggest additional tests or monitoring depending on your symptoms and other findings.
• May be a sign of permanent damage to cells in the pancreas that make lipase, which can occur in chronic diseases like cystic fibrosis and chronic pancreatitis.: Low level of lipase Limitation: Low levels may indicate permanent damage to the cells that produce lipase, but this is not the only possible cause. Next step: Your provider may evaluate for chronic conditions such as cystic fibrosis or chronic pancreatitis.

• Many medicines, including codeine, diuretics, certain cholesterol medicines, and birth control pills, can affect lipase levels.
• Abnormal levels do not always mean a medical condition that needs treatment.

What to do next

Discuss your lipase test results with your health care provider to understand what they mean for your health.

• What do my lipase test results mean for my health?
• Do I need any follow-up tests based on these results?
• Can my current medications affect my lipase level?

Evidence source

U.S. National Library of Medicine: Lipase Test