Lipase (LIP) | LabsVault

What is Lipase?

Lipase is a digestive enzyme produced primarily by the pancreas that breaks down dietary fats into smaller molecules for absorption. Unlike amylase, lipase is more specific to the pancreas, making it a more reliable marker for pancreatic disorders and inflammation.

Why is it Tested?

Doctors order lipase to evaluate suspected pancreatitis, assess pancreatic function, or investigate abdominal pain. Lipase is considered more specific for pancreatic disease than amylase and often remains elevated longer, making it particularly useful for diagnosing pancreatitis.

Normal Ranges

Reference ranges vary by lab:

Adults: 0–160 U/L

Lipase values typically remain stable in healthy individuals. Levels three times above normal strongly suggest acute pancreatitis when combined with appropriate clinical symptoms.

Reference ranges vary by authority. Track yours across multiple standards with automatic unit conversions in LabsVault.

What do Abnormal Results Mean?

Abnormal results are not a diagnosis. Always discuss your results with a qualified healthcare provider before making any medical decisions.

High Lipase

Elevated levels may indicate:

Acute pancreatitis (most common cause)
Chronic pancreatitis
Pancreatic duct obstruction
Pancreatic cancer
Kidney disease (decreased clearance)

Low Lipase

Decreased levels may suggest:

Advanced chronic pancreatitis with tissue destruction
Cystic fibrosis
Pancreatic insufficiency
Some genetic disorders affecting pancreatic function

How to Track Over Time

Lipase levels rise rapidly during acute pancreatitis and typically remain elevated longer than amylase, often for several days to weeks. Monitoring lipase trends helps assess pancreatitis severity, treatment response, and recovery. Persistently elevated levels warrant investigation for chronic pancreatic conditions.

Lipase