An enzyme called lipase, produced by our pancreas, helps in the digestion of dietary lipids in the intestines. Lipase aids in the body's absorption of fats and is released by the pancreas, a long, flat gland situated between the spine and the stomach. The pancreas produces more lipase than usual when it is inflamed or damaged. Abnormally high or low lipase levels may indicate a pancreatic problem. A test known as a Lipase blood test allows a doctor to determine the levels of lipase in the body.

What is a Lipase test?

A lipase test determines the level of lipase in the blood. The goal of lipase testing is to detect pancreatic disorders, most commonly acute pancreatitis. The pancreas is an organ located beneath the stomach that produces essential hormones and enzymes. When someone has acute pancreatitis, the pancreas swells and becomes inflamed. Lipase testing is often used to identify chronic pancreatitis, a long-lasting illness that can permanently damage the pancreas. The lipase test may also be done to identify several other medical disorders, such as:

• Intestinal obstruction or injury
• Severe abdominal or back pain
• Peritonitis
• Pancreatic cysts
• Celiac disease, triggered by the protein gluten
• Cystic fibrosis

When should I get the Lipase test?

Specific health conditions are often diagnosed using the findings from these tests. The lipase test can also be used by medical practitioners to track the development of certain disorders once they have been identified. However, typically, they perform the test to reach a preliminary diagnosis. If a patient exhibits symptoms that might indicate an abnormal pancreatic state, especially those suggestive of acute pancreatitis, the doctor may recommend a lipase test.

Symptoms of acute pancreatitis may include:

• Pain in the abdomen
• Abdominal bloating or discomfort
• Vomiting and nausea
• Fever
• Rapid heartbeat
• Pale stools
• Jaundice, characterised by yellowing of the skin and eyes

Uses of Lipase test

This test is primarily used in conjunction with amylase testing for the diagnosis and monitoring of pancreatitis. It can also aid in diagnosing several diseases, including Cystic Fibrosis, Celiac disease, and Crohn’s Disease. Abnormal lipase levels can indicate the presence of various other diseases that can impact pancreatitis. When detected at an early stage, this condition can be managed effectively. Early identification of lipase levels also helps prevent damage to other parts of the body.

What are the different types of Lipase Tests? 

Lipase tests are medical tests that measure the levels of lipase, an enzyme produced by the pancreas, in the blood. Elevated lipase levels can indicate various conditions affecting the pancreas. There are different types of lipase tests, including:

• Serum Lipase Test: This is the most common type of lipase test and measures the amount of lipase in the blood serum.
• Pancreatic Lipase Immunoreactivity (PLI) Test: This test specifically measures the level of pancreatic lipase, which is more specific to pancreatic function.
• Urine Lipase Test: Some lipase may be excreted through the urine, and this test measures lipase levels in urine.
• Amidase Test: This test measures the activity of pancreatic lipase on fat molecules and is used to assess the pancreatic function.
• Fecal Fat Test: Although not a direct lipase test, the fecal fat test is sometimes used to indirectly assess pancreatic function by measuring the amount of fat in the stool. Pancreatic lipase plays a role in fat digestion, so a deficiency can lead to increased fat in the stool.

What are the risks of the Lipase Test?

The risks associated with a lipase test are minimal, and any discomfort experienced is typically brief and mild during the blood draw, which is common for most blood tests. Possible risks include challenges in obtaining a sample, potentially leading to multiple needle sticks. Fainting due to the sight of blood, known as a vasovagal response, is another potential risk. Additionally, there may be a risk of hematoma (blood buildup under the skin), infection at the needle insertion site, temporary pain or throbbing, and bruising. Despite these potential risks, they are generally infrequent and minor.

How to prepare for the Lipase test?

When it comes to undergoing a lipase test procedure, very little preparation is required. As with any medical test, it's important to follow the advice and directions of the technicians and physicians. The patient should fast for 8 to 12 hours before the lipase test, precisely as instructed by the doctor. To ensure accurate test results and to avoid any interference, patients should inform their doctor in advance about any drugs or dietary supplements they are taking. The doctor may also advise against taking certain drugs before the test.’

Procedure for Lipase Test

Typically, a vein in the arm, often in the pit of the elbow, is used to draw blood for lipase testing.

The phlebotomist taking the blood sample will clean the area surrounding the vein with a sterile swab and may apply a tourniquet to the upper arm. A small needle is used to draw blood by piercing the skin and entering a vein. The collected blood goes into a tube connected to the needle. It is normal to experience some minor stinging or soreness when the phlebotomist inserts or removes the needle.

Values of Lipase Test Results

The results of the lipase test may vary depending on factors such as the patient's age, gender, health history, test technique, and other individual factors. It's crucial to discuss the results with a doctor due to this variation. The same test result may indicate a problem in one individual but not in another.

Lipase test results are typically presented in units per litre (U/L). A lipase level between 10 to 140 U/L is considered the normal range for individuals under 60, while a range of 24 to 151 U/L is considered normal for individuals aged 60 and older.

A pancreatic issue is indicated by the presence of higher-than-usual amounts of lipase in the body. It is most likely that individuals have acute pancreatitis if their blood contains 3 to 10 times the normal lipase levels.

Conclusion

The lipase test is relatively non-invasive and is unlikely to have any negative side effects. Doctors can detect acute pancreatitis and other pancreatic health conditions using the test findings. Early identification and treatment of acute pancreatitis can prevent it from worsening. The lipase test is relatively inexpensive at CARE Hospitals and is available at both inpatient and diagnostic facilities.

FAQs

Q1. What does a high Lipase level mean?

Ans. The presence of higher-than-normal lipase levels in the blood indicates an underlying issue with the pancreas. Blood lipase levels that are 3 to 10 times higher than the lipase normal range are indicative of acute pancreatitis. Additionally, high lipase levels may suggest kidney failure, liver disease, or a gastrointestinal issue.

Q2. Is high Lipase serious?

Ans. Elevated lipase levels in the blood may signal a pancreas-related disease. Levels are sometimes 5 to 10 times higher than the maximum reference value in acute pancreatitis. High lipase levels might be a sign of a medical problem that prevents the pancreas from producing lipase normally. Potential conditions include:

• Gallstones
• Celiac disease
• Cholecystitis.
• Gastroenteritis
• Pancreatic cancer

Q3. Is high Lipase curable?

Ans.  Elevated lipase values in pancreatitis can be reduced with prompt diagnosis and treatment. Intravenous fluids and medications to address underlying problems and reduce discomfort are possible treatment options. Maintaining lipase normal values and adopting a balanced diet can both help prevent acute pancreatitis.

Q4. What increases Lipase levels?

Ans. A diet heavy in carbohydrates tends to be a reason for high or elevated lipase levels. Additionally, stress, alcohol usage, and a sedentary lifestyle might contribute to them.

Q5. What are the symptoms of high Lipase?

Ans. If a patient displays symptoms of pancreatic disease, including fever, nausea, greasy stools, excruciating back or stomach pain, loss of appetite, and unexplained weight loss, the doctor may recommend a lipase test.

Q6. How to lower Lipase levels?

Ans. To reduce the amount of lipase in the body, one may need to receive intravenous fluids or medications to manage pain and treat other medical conditions. Consuming a balanced diet and abstaining from alcohol can help reduce the risk of acute pancreatitis while keeping lipase levels stable.