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Lipase is an enzyme produced almost exclusively by the pancreas to digest dietary fats in the small intestine, making it a highly specific marker for pancreatic injury. Elevated lipase — particularly levels three times the upper limit of normal or higher — is the standard diagnostic criterion for acute pancreatitis and remains elevated for 7–14 days, longer than amylase. Unlike amylase, lipase is rarely elevated in conditions outside the pancreas, making it the preferred test for suspected pancreatitis in most modern clinical guidelines.
Also known as: Lip, LIPA, Lipasa, Lipase, Lipase, Serum, Lipasi, Lipaz, LPS
High lipase above 3x upper limit is highly specific for acute pancreatitis. Low lipase occurs in chronic pancreatitis and pancreatic exocrine insufficiency.
Standard range is 0-60 U/L. Lipase rises within 4-8 hours, peaks at 24 hours, and remains elevated for 8-14 days.