Lipase is a type of enzyme which is prepared by the pancreas, a glandular organ that sits behind the stomach. While eating, lipase is released into our digestive tract and helps the intestines to break down the fats present in the food we eat. To state otherwise, lipase is a key digestive enzyme that helps the body to digest fats.
A standard amount of lipase is needed to maintain the normal functioning of the cells as well the digestive system. An abnormally higher level of enzyme in the blood is indicator of a serious health problem. Therefore lipase blood test is used to measure the amount of lipase present in the body along with an amylase test which helps to diagnose severe pancreatic diseases such as-
• Acute pancreatitis- sudden swelling of the pancreas.
• Chronic pancreatitis- Chronic or recurrent swelling of the pancreas.
• Celiac disease.
• Crohn’s disease.
• Cystic fibrosis.
• Pancreatic cancer etc.
When is the test ordered?
Generally, a lipase blood test is ordered, when a person suffers from one of the above-mentioned diseases. Other than that, the test can also be used for initial diagnosis. The doctor may order the test if one is suffering from clinical symptoms of a pancreatic disorder. Some of the symptoms are as follows:
• Severe upper abdominal pain or back pain,
• High Fever,
• Oily or fatty stools,
• Loss of appetite,
• Severe weight loss,
• Nausea, with or without vomiting.
The test is also directed at intervals when the doctor wants to monitor someone with a pancreatic disease to evaluate the effectiveness of the on-going treatment and also to determine whether the lipase level has increased or decreased over time.
Preparation for the Test
Usually, the preparation of the test includes eight hours of fasting before giving the blood sample. In addition to this, the doctor may recommend to stop taking certain types of medications like – birth control pills, codeine, morphine, thiazide diuretics, etc. or other herbal supplements before the test. This is because prior medications can interfere with the test results.
How is the test done?
Lipase blood test is typically performed by a lab technician or nurse. The sample of blood is drawn from one of the veins, preferably from the arm. The blood is collected in a special sample tube which is then sent to the laboratory for in-depth examination.
Understanding the results-
• The normal range of lipase is under 140 units per liter (U/L).Also depending on the age, the values as high as 200 U/L is also considered to be normal.
• If the level of lipase is 5 – 10 times higher than the standard value, the person is considered to be suffering from the disease called acute pancreatitis.
• A low level of lipase in the blood, below 110 U/L, indicates permanent damage to the lipase- producing cells in the pancreas which can eventually lead to cystic fibrosis.
To conclude, lipase blood test can provide various critical health information. The doctor usually prescribes this test if you are suffering from any type of pancreatic disease or digestive disorder.
