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Lipase, Serum
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Feb 21, 2024.
What is it?
Lipase is an enzyme found in the pancreas (pan-kree-us). An enzyme (n-zime) is a protein that helps speed up a chemical reaction in your body. The pancreas is a small organ located near the stomach. Many of the enzymes released from the pancreas help break food down so it can be used by your body. Serum lipase levels are used in the diagnosis of acute (severe) pancreatitis (pan-kree-uh-ti-tis). The pancreas is the organ in your body with the most lipase activity.
Why do I need it?
Your caregiver may want to get a lipase level if you have stomach pain. A lipase level can help tell if the pain is caused by pancreatitis (pan-kree-uh-ti-tis). Pancreatitis is swelling and inflammation of the pancreas. The lipase level is also helpful to see how the treatment for pancreatitis is working. For more information, ask your caregiver for the CareNotes™ handout about pancreatitis.
How do I get ready for the test?
Your caregivers will tell you when to have your blood test done. Ask your caregivers if you should wait to take your medicines until after your blood is taken.
How is the specimen collected?
A caregiver will put a wide rubber strap around your arm and tighten it. Your skin will be cleaned with alcohol. A small needle attached to a special test tube will be put into a vein in your arm or hand. The tube has suction to pull the blood into it. When the tube is full, the rubber strap, needle and tube are removed. The caregiver will press a piece of cotton where the needle was removed. You may be asked to hold the cotton on the site for a few minutes to help stop the bleeding. Tape may then be put over the cotton on your arm.
What do I do after the test?
You may remove the tape and cotton in about 20 to 30 minutes. Call your caregiver to get the results of your test. Your caregiver will explain what your test results mean for you. Follow the instructions of your caregiver.
Care Agreement
You have the right to help plan your care. To help with this plan, you must learn about your lab tests. You can then discuss the results with your caregivers. Work with them to decide what care may be used to treat you. You always have the right to refuse treatment.
Further information
Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.
