Lipase Test

Lipase is a type of enzyme that the pancreas produces and secretes into the small intestine. Lipase is responsible for breaking down lipids or fats, converting them into glycerol and fatty acids. The purpose of a lipase test, which is a blood analysis and used to determine how much lipase is present in the blood. It is normal for small amounts to be present in the blood, but when there are increased amounts in the blood this can indicate that the pancreas or the pancreatic duct may be injured. 

Physicians recommend lipase tests in patients that may have pancreatic dysfunction such as gallstones, pancreatitis, pancreatic duct blockages and other pancreatic disorders. Some of the most common symptoms of these conditions include nausea, appetite loss, fever and abdominal pain. Physicians may also recommend a lipase blood screening for children that have cystic fibrosis, a condition where there is thick mucus clogging the pancreas and the lungs which causes chronic lung infections and malabsorption issues.