Lipase

What does this test measure?

Lipase, an enzyme that hydrolyses glycerol esters of long-chain fatty acids; only pancreatic lipase is of diagnostic interest.

Why is it ordered?

Serum lipase increases after acute pancreatitis (and persists longer than amylase) and may also rise with pancreatic duct obstruction by calculus or carcinoma, acute and chronic renal disease, and opiate treatment.

Normal range

Serum: ≤ 38 U/L

Per the original BioSystems insert

Sample type

Serum or heparinized plasma