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Lipase

Published: July 27, 2026Updated: August 25, 2026

Lipase is an enzyme primarily produced by the pancreas that aids in the digestion of fats by breaking down lipids into fatty acids and glycerol.

Quick summary

Lipase levels help diagnose pancreatic disorders like pancreatitis.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 25, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

Units
U/L
Clinical utility
diagnostic
Result kind
quantitative
FDA-cleared
Roche Lipase, Abbott Lipase, Siemens Lipase, Abbott LIPC
interpretation: {"text":"0 - 160 U/L: Lipase levels within this range are considered normal.","label":"Normal"}; {"text":"> 160 U/L: Elevated levels may indicate pancreatic disease, such as pancreatitis or pancreatic cancer.","label":"Elevated"}

Lipase is a crucial enzyme for lipid digestion, and its levels in the blood can indicate the health of the pancreas. Elevated levels are often associated with conditions like acute pancreatitis, chronic pancreatitis, or other pancreatic diseases.

Normal lipase levels range from 0 to 160 U/L. Levels above this range may suggest pancreatic inflammation or damage. However, mild elevations can also occur in other conditions such as kidney disease or intestinal obstruction.

Measuring lipase is often used in conjunction with other tests, such as amylase, to provide a more comprehensive diagnosis of pancreatic disorders. It is a sensitive marker for acute pancreatitis, often rising within 4-8 hours of onset and remaining elevated for 8-14 days.

Frequently asked questions

What causes elevated lipase levels?
Elevated lipase levels can be caused by acute pancreatitis, chronic pancreatitis, pancreatic cancer, celiac disease, or other conditions affecting the pancreas.
How is a lipase test performed?
A lipase test involves a simple blood draw, usually taken from a vein in the arm. The sample is then analyzed in a laboratory to measure the lipase concentration.
  1. 1
    Mayo Clinic: Lipase TestSource
  2. 2
    American Association for Clinical Chemistry: LipaseSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy