Lipase is an enzyme that is mainly produced by pancreas, but it is also present in smaller quantities in the liver, intestines, and stomach. Its main role is to break down dietary fats into smaller molecules, such as fatty acids, so they can be absorbed and used as an energy source.

In medicine, lipase is a key biomarker to diagnose pancreatic diseases. Abnormal lipase levels may indicate conditions like pancreatitis or pancreatic cancer. Lipase tests help confirm these diagnoses and monitor the progress of treatments.

A lipase test is often prescribed when a doctor suspects a problem with the pancreas or digestive system. It makes it possible to assess pancreatic function and to detect underlying conditions.

Symptoms and Conditions That Need Testing

• Appetite loss : A sudden or prolonged decrease in appetite may indicate a pancreatic problem.
• Abdominal pain : Especially if the pain is intense, localized in the upper abdomen or radiating to the back.
• Nausea and vomiting : Especially when associated with other digestive disorders.
• Fever : Potential indication of infection or inflammation of the pancreas.
• Jaundice : A yellowing of the skin or eyes, which may indicate a problem with the bile ducts or the pancreas.
• Unexplained weight loss : Linked to poor digestion and absorption of nutrients.
• History of pancreatitis : Monitoring lipase levels can help manage chronic pancreatitis or assess the effectiveness of treatments.

Lipase levels are measured using a blood test, often as part of a larger assessment to explore pancreatic or digestive disorders.

Procedure:

• A health professional takes a blood sample, usually from the arm.
• This test can be included in a complete metabolic assessment (CMP) or performed specifically to analyze pancreatic enzymes.

Test Preparations:

• On an empty stomach : A fast of 12 to 16 hours is often required to ensure accurate results.
• Hydration : Drinking water is recommended to facilitate a clean blood sample.
• Medications : Some medications may interfere with results. Consult your doctor before stopping or continuing your treatments.

For adults, normal lipase levels are generally between 13 and 60 units per liter (U/L). These values indicate normal functioning of the pancreas and effective fat digestion.

note : Normal ranges may vary depending on the laboratories and methods used.

High levels

High lipase levels often indicate a problem with the pancreas or digestive system.

Common causes:

• Acute pancreatitis : A sudden inflammation of the pancreas causing lipase levels to rise rapidly, often 3 to 10 times normal.
• Chronic pancreatitis : A persistent inflammation causing periodic increases in lipase.
• Pancreatic cancer : Tumors can cause increased enzyme production.
• Gallstones : Bile duct obstructions can cause lipase levels in the blood to rise.
• Kidney failure : The kidneys are unable to remove lipase properly.
• Gastrointestinal obstruction : A blockage in the intestines can increase levels due to overloading the digestive system.

Recommendations:

• Consult a doctor to determine the underlying cause.
• Hydrate yourself : Drinking lots of water helps support digestive health.
• Avoid alcohol : Reducing or stopping alcohol consumption can relieve the pancreas.
• Eat a diet low in fat : To reduce the load on the pancreas.
• Manage stress : High stress can worsen digestive disorders.

Low levels

Low lipase levels are less common but may indicate chronic problems affecting enzyme production.

Common causes:

• Pancreatic insufficiency : Insufficient production of enzymes, causing difficulties in digesting fats.
• Cystic fibrosis : A genetic disorder affecting the pancreas, resulting in reduced enzyme production.
• Pancreatic surgery : Resection or partial removal of the pancreas reduces lipase production.
• Advanced chronic pancreatitis : Chronic inflammation can damage the pancreas irreversibly.
• Malnutrition : Prolonged malnutrition can compromise enzyme production.

Recommendations:

• Consult a physician to consider treatments or enzyme replacement therapies.
• Split your meals : Smaller and more frequent meals reduce digestive load.
• Integrate enzyme-rich foods : Eat fruits like pineapple or papaya, which naturally support digestion.
• Ensure adequate nutrition : Call on a nutritionist to balance your intake.

In case of abnormal lipase levels, it is recommended that you consult:

• Gastroenterologist : Specialist in digestive and pancreatic disorders.
• General practitioner : For an initial assessment and overall health monitoring.
• Endocrinologist : If a hormonal imbalance or diabetes is suspected.

Working closely with your doctor is critical to properly diagnose and effectively treat abnormalities in lipase levels.