LIPASE LAB TEST

Description

WHAT IS A LIPASE LAB TEST?

The Lipase Test measures the level of lipase in the blood.

AM I REQUIRED TO FAST FOR THIS LAB TEST?

No.

WHAT IS THE PRICE FOR A LIPASE LAB TEST?

$99.00

*Price may vary by location – contact your local ANY LAB TEST NOW®

DESCRIPTION:

Lipase is an enzyme produced by the pancreas that breaks down dietary fats (triglycerides) into fatty acids which can be used for energy, as well as to help regulate thyroid and adrenal gland activity, control inflammation, and regulate blood pressure, immune responses and liver function.  Insufficient amounts of essential fatty acids can cause mood swings, memory loss, dementia, vision problems and dry hair and skin.  Too much lipase in the blood can be a sign of a pancreatic disorder.

Lipase is usually present in small amounts in the blood but these levels rise when the pancreas is injured (pancreatitis) or when the pancreatic duct (a tube leading from the pancreas to the small intestines) is blocked by a gallstone or a tumor.   The damaged pancreas or blockage then causes the pancreas to produce more lipase.

WHY DO I NEED TO CHECK MY LIPASE LEVEL?

Are you having unexplained severe abdominal pain, fever, loss of appetite or nausea?

These symptoms may be caused by a pancreatic disorder, chronic kidney disease, gallstones, or alcohol or drug abuse.  The inability of the body to break down triglycerides can cause digestion and waste production issues including abdominal pain, greasy stools and the formation of stones in the pancreas.

The test is also used to monitor ongoing levels of lipase to indicate whether treatment for pancreatitis or cystic fibrosis is effective.

The lipase test is often ordered with the amylase test to look for:

• Acute pancreatitis
• Chronic pancreatitis
• Celiac disease
• Crohn’s disease
• Cystic fibrosis
• Pancreatic cancer

OTHER RELEVANT TESTS:

You may want to Take Control of Your Health by getting a Complete Blood Count (CBC), Comprehensive Metabolic Panel or Male or Female Health Profile.

TEST DETAILS:

NORMAL RANGE:

Normal Range: 7-60 U/L

HIGH RESULTS INDICATE:

High results may indicate pancreatitis or a pancreatic disorder, problems with the gallbladder such as gallstones, chronic kidney disease, a peptic ulcer, primary biliary cirrhosis or alcohol or drug abuse.

LOW RESULTS INDICATE:

Low results may indicate cystic fibrosis or other conditions that affect the pancreas.

WHAT TYPE OF PHYSICIAN SHOULD I SEE IF MY LIPASE TEST RESULTS ARE ABNORMAL OR OUT OF RANGE?

You should see your primary care physician or an endocrinologist for evaluation of out-of-range test results.