Lipase Test

What is a lipase blood test?

The lipase test is a blood test. It measures the amount of an enzyme called lipase in the blood. Lipase is made by the pancreas. It helps you digest fats in the food you eat.

Why is this test done?

This test is done to check for problems with the pancreas. For example, this test may be done to see if you have pancreatitis, which is inflammation or swelling of the pancreas. The pancreas is an organ behind the stomach. It makes digestive enzymes and insulin. The digestive enzymes flow into the small intestine to help your body break down food. Insulin goes into the blood to control the level of sugar (glucose) in your blood.

How do I prepare for this test?

• You need to fast for at least 8 hours before the test. Usually it is easiest to do this by having nothing to eat or drink after midnight except water.
• You may need to avoid taking certain medicines before the test because they might affect the test result. Make sure your healthcare provider knows about any medicines, herbs, or supplements that you are taking. Don't stop any of your regular medicines without first consulting with your healthcare provider.

How is the test done?

The skin on your arm is carefully cleaned and then a small amount of blood is taken from a vein in your arm with a needle. The blood is collected in tubes and sent to a lab.

How will I get the test result?

Ask your healthcare provider when and how you will get the result of your test.

What does the test result mean?

The normal range may vary slightly from lab to lab.

The most common cause of an abnormal result is pancreatitis. Anything that blocks pancreatic juices can cause abnormally high lipase--for example:

• a gallstone in the common bile duct
• an ulcer that has made a hole in the stomach and is irritating the pancreas
• cancer of the pancreas

Lipase may also be high because of a medicine you have taken.

What if my test result is not normal?

Test results are only one part of a larger picture that takes into account your medical history and current health. Sometimes a test needs to be repeated to check the first result. Talk to your healthcare provider about your result and ask questions such as:

• if you need more tests
• what kind of treatment you might need
• when you need to be tested again
• what lifestyle, diet, or other changes you might need to make