Blood test
Amylase & Lipase Test
Amylase and lipase are enzymes made by the pancreas. Blood tests measuring them are used mainly to help diagnose pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas).
Quick answer
Amylase & Lipase Test: what it is and what the results mean
Amylase and lipase are digestive enzymes produced by the pancreas. Blood tests measure their levels, which typically rise when the pancreas is inflamed or damaged.
- Why it is done: They are used mainly to help diagnose acute pancreatitis in someone with severe abdominal pain, and sometimes to investigate other pancreatic or digestive problems.
- Understanding results: A markedly raised level, especially lipase, in someone with typical symptoms strongly supports pancreatitis.
What it is
Amylase and lipase are digestive enzymes produced by the pancreas. Blood tests measure their levels, which typically rise when the pancreas is inflamed or damaged.
Why it is done
They are used mainly to help diagnose acute pancreatitis in someone with severe abdominal pain, and sometimes to investigate other pancreatic or digestive problems.
What to expect
It is a standard blood test from the arm, often done urgently when pancreatitis is suspected, alongside other tests and sometimes a scan.
Understanding the results
A markedly raised level, especially lipase, in someone with typical symptoms strongly supports pancreatitis. Levels can also rise in other conditions, so results are interpreted with symptoms, examination and imaging.
Good to know
Risks and limitations
The blood test is very safe. The enzymes are not perfectly specific to the pancreas and levels change over time, so they are used together with the clinical picture and scans rather than alone.
Education and reference only. This explains the test in general terms and is not medical advice. Always follow the specific instructions from the team arranging your test, and discuss your results with your clinician.
Answers
Amylase & Lipase Test: frequently asked questions
What does a high amylase or lipase mean?
A markedly raised level, particularly lipase, in someone with severe abdominal pain strongly suggests pancreatitis. Because other conditions can raise them, results are interpreted with symptoms and scans.
Which is better, amylase or lipase?
Lipase tends to stay raised longer and is often considered more specific for the pancreas, but both may be measured. Your clinician interprets them alongside your symptoms and other tests.
Related tests
Other blood test investigations
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Tests and treatments
- NICE — diagnostic guidance
- Association for Laboratory Medicine / relevant professional body
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