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Serum or Plasma Mass Concentration of Pancreatic Lipase

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the amount of pancreatic lipase in your blood, which helps assess pancreatic health and rule out conditions like pancreatitis.

Quick summary

["High levels may signal inflammation or injury in your pancreas; low levels could indicate other issues needing further evaluation."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
3574-1
Short code
Dipipanone Ur-mCnc
Synonyms
Dipipanone Ur-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
10 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or unexplained weight loss. It’s also used to monitor chronic conditions affecting the pancreas or after a suspected acute attack.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the blood draw if your lab requires it. Bring any medications you’re currently taking to your appointment.

What Happens During the Test?

A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. The process is quick and typically painless. You may feel a slight pinch, but the site will be cleaned afterward.

What Are Possible Results?

Results are interpreted based on your symptoms and medical history. Elevated levels often indicate pancreatitis or other pancreatic issues, while normal results suggest no acute problems detected.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Pancreatic lipase is an enzyme produced by the pancreas that breaks down fats. Elevated levels in blood or urine strongly suggest pancreatitis (inflammation), often due to gallstones, alcohol use, or other triggers. It’s also used to diagnose chronic pancreatitis or monitor pancreatic diseases over time.

Short name

Pancreatic Lipase (Mass Concentration)

Frequently asked questions

What causes elevated pancreatic lipase levels?
Common causes include acute pancreatitis (sudden inflammation), chronic pancreatitis (long-term damage), gallstones blocking bile flow, heavy alcohol use, or certain medications. Rarely, other conditions like pancreatic cancer or infections may also affect levels.
What if my results are normal but I still have symptoms?
Normal results don’t rule out pancreatitis or other pancreatic issues. Your provider may recommend additional tests (like imaging or further bloodwork) to investigate further. Follow-up may include repeat testing or a different diagnostic approach.
How soon will I get my results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time. Your healthcare provider will discuss them with you during a follow-up visit or call.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy