Lipase
Disclaimer: Information on this page is for educational purposes. Consult a physician to interpret your test results. Health Vault helps track biomarker trends but does not replace medical advice.
What This Test Measures
Lipase is a pancreatic enzyme for fat digestion. More specific for pancreatitis than amylase; stays elevated longer.
Elevation >3× ULN with typical symptoms strongly suggests acute pancreatitis.
May also rise with pancreatic duct obstruction and renal failure.
Normal Ranges
| Group | Reference Range |
|---|---|
| Men | 0–60 U/L |
| Women | 0–60 U/L |
| Children | 0–60 U/L |
Reference ranges may vary by laboratory and assay method.
Causes of High Levels
- Acute pancreatitis
- Pancreatic duct obstruction
- Renal failure
- Bowel perforation (rare)
Causes of Low Levels
- Chronic pancreatitis with exocrine failure
- Pancreatectomy
Test Preparation
- Fasting preferred
- Report alcohol, gallstones, medications
Related Biomarkers
| Biomarker | Relationship |
|---|---|
| Amylase | Pancreatic panel |
| Triglycerides | Etiology workup |
| Calcium | Hypercalcemic pancreatitis |
FAQ
How often should I take this test?
In acute pancreatitis — serial measurements until normalized.
What should I do if my result is abnormal?
Suspected pancreatitis with lipase >3× ULN — hospitalization; evaluate gallstones and alcohol.
Last updated: June 2026