Amylase and lipase aredigestive enzymesproduced by the pancreas.
Abnormal levels of amylase and lipase are associated with a condition known aspancreatitis.
The pancreas is a digestive gland located near the stomach.
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The pancreas performs two important digestive functions: Making insulin and producing digestive enzymes.
Pancreatitis is the inflammation of the pancreas.
Elevated amylase and lipase may be an indication of pancreatitis but does not cause pancreatitis.
A pancreatitis blood test aims to diagnose pancreatitis by looking for high or low levels of amylase and lipase.
In this article, learn more about the pancreatitis blood test and what its results can mean.
In the United States, acute pancreatitis is one of the top gastrointestinal reasons for hospitalization.
Amylase and lipase are digestive enzymes present in the bloodstream.
However, interpretation of amylase and lipase elevation should not be the only testing to diagnose pancreatitis.
The venipuncture site will be cleaned thoroughly with an appropriate solution, such as isopropyl alcohol or chlorhexidine.
This pressure will help control any bleeding from the venipuncture site.
After ensuring any bleeding from the venipuncture site has stopped, the healthcare professional will apply a bandage.
This bandage should stay in place for 15 minutes to ensure that the bleeding has fully stopped.
Low levels of amylase and lipase can indicate chronic pancreatitis, liver disease, orcystic fibrosis.
Summary
Amylase and lipase are digestive enzymes produced in the pancreas.
Their function is to assist with digestion.
A Word From Verywell
Experiencing a sudden onset of upper abdominal pain can be overwhelming.
One of the conditions that could cause this sudden abdominal pain is pancreatitis.
A CBC test can indicate a possible infection related to pancreatitis.
However, a full blood count alone is not enough to diagnose pancreatitis.
People affected by pancreatitis often fall very ill very suddenly and need to seek immediate medical attention.
In those cases, antibiotics and occasionally surgery might be necessary.
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UpToDate.Approach to the patient with elevated serum amylase and lipase.
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National Institute for Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.Symptoms & causes of pancreatitis.
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