Why is a lipase blood test done?
A lipase test is done to help with the diagnosis of pancreatitis and cancer of the pancreas.
How is a lipase blood test done?
A health professional uses a needle to take a blood sample, usually from the arm.
How do you prepare for a lipase blood test?
In general, you don't need to prepare before having this test. Your doctor may give you some specific instructions.
What do the results of a lipase blood test mean?
Normal
Each lab has a different range for what's normal. Your lab report should show the range that your lab uses for each test. The normal range is just a guide. Your doctor will also look at your results based on your age, health, and other factors. A value that isn't in the normal range may still be normal for you.
High values
A high lipase level may be caused by:
- Diseases of the pancreas, such as pancreatitis or cancer of the pancreas.
- Problems with the gallbladder, such as gallstones and inflammation (cholecystitis).
- Chronic kidney disease.
- Problems with the intestines, such as bowel blockage (obstruction) or tissue death (infarction).
- Infection, inflammation, or cancer of a salivary gland.
- Peptic ulcer disease.
- Primary biliary cirrhosis, a serious condition that damages the liver and keeps it from working the way it should.
- Substance use disorder.
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