What is this test?
Lipase is an enzyme produced mainly by the pancreas to digest fats. It is commonly used when acute pancreatitis is suspected.
Why might it be ordered?
- To investigate significant upper-abdominal pain, nausea or suspected pancreatic inflammation.
- To follow a pancreatic condition when requested.
What sample is needed?
A blood sample is required. The laboratory chooses the correct tube and handles the sample for this test.
How should you prepare?
Ask the laboratory whether you need to fast or attend at a particular time. Do not stop or change medicines or supplements unless your clinician tells you to.
How should you understand the result?
A substantial rise in the right clinical setting supports pancreatitis, but other conditions can also raise lipase. The value does not show severity by itself.
Sources and editorial status
This patient-facing text is an editorial draft. It should be approved by a laboratory physician before official publication.