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Lipase Tests
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Lab Tests

Lipase Tests

A lipase test measures the level of lipase in your blood to help diagnose pancreatic conditions, such as pancreatitis.

What is a lipase test?

A lipase test measures the level of lipase in your blood. Lipase is a type of digestive enzyme—a protein that speeds up certain chemical reactions in your body—that helps you digest fats. While most lipase is produced in the pancreas, it is also made in your stomach and salivary glands.

It is normal to have a small amount of lipase in your blood. However, if the cells of your pancreas are damaged, they release larger amounts of lipase. Consequently, high levels of lipase in your blood may indicate pancreatitis (an inflamed, swollen pancreas) or other pancreatic diseases.

Other names: serum lipase, lipase, LPS

What is it used for?

A lipase test may be used to:

  • Help diagnose diseases of the pancreas, especially acute pancreatitis.
  • Check if treatment for pancreatic diseases is working.
  • Help diagnose and monitor chronic diseases, including cystic fibrosis, Crohn's disease, and celiac disease.
  • Help diagnose injury or blockage of the intestines.
  • Help diagnose peritonitis (inflammation of the tissue that lines the abdominal wall).
  • Help diagnose pancreatic cysts.

Why do I need a lipase test?

You may need this test if you have symptoms of a pancreatic problem, such as:

  • Abdominal pain that may spread to your lower back
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Swollen or tender belly
  • Fever
  • Fast heartbeat
  • Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)

What happens during a lipase test?

Lipase is measured via a blood test. A health care professional will collect a blood sample from a vein in your arm using a small needle. The process typically takes less than five minutes.

Preparation and Risks

You may need to fast (not eat or drink) for 8–12 hours before the test. Because certain medicines and supplements can affect results, inform your provider of everything you are taking, but do not stop any medication unless instructed to do so.

Risks are minimal, limited to slight pain or bruising at the needle site, which typically resolves quickly.

What do the results mean?

  • Very high levels: Usually a sign of acute pancreatitis.
  • Higher than normal levels: May be caused by pancreatic diseases (such as a blocked duct or cancer), chronic kidney disease, peptic ulcer, gallbladder disease, intestinal problems, diabetes, salivary gland disorders, or alcohol use disorder.
  • Low levels: May indicate permanent damage to the pancreatic cells that produce lipase, which can occur in chronic diseases like cystic fibrosis or chronic pancreatitis.

Note that many medications, including codeine, diuretics, certain cholesterol medicines, and birth control pills, can affect lipase levels. If your results are abnormal, consult your health care provider to discuss your specific medical context.

Frequently Asked Questions

Fasting is generally not required for a standard lipase test. You can usually eat and drink normally before the appointment unless your healthcare provider gives specific instructions otherwise. However, if you are taking any medications, inform your doctor, as some drugs can potentially affect enzyme levels.
Lipase levels typically begin to rise within 4 to 8 hours after the onset of acute pancreatitis. They usually peak within 24 hours and can remain elevated for up to 8 to 14 days, which makes lipase more useful than amylase for diagnosing late-presenting cases.
Yes, elevated lipase can occur due to other conditions such as kidney failure, intestinal blockages, or certain medications. It is also possible to have high lipase without active pancreatic inflammation, so clinicians always interpret these results alongside your symptoms and other blood tests like amylase.
Low lipase levels are less common but can indicate exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, where the pancreas does not produce enough enzymes to digest food properly. This condition is often associated with chronic pancreatitis or cystic fibrosis and may lead to malabsorption and weight loss.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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