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Serum Lipase (Enzymatic Assay)

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

This test measures the amount of an enzyme called lipase in your blood. Lipase helps your body break down fats, and elevated levels may signal inflammation or digestive issues.

Quick summary

["Elevated lipase can signal pancreatitis or other digestive problems."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
3040-3
Short code
Lipase SerPl-cCnc
Synonyms
Lipase SerPl-cCnc
Category
glucose
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Critical range
— – 1000 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Is Done

Your doctor may order a lipase test to check for conditions affecting your pancreas, such as pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), pancreatic cancer, or other digestive disorders. It can also help diagnose or monitor chronic conditions like cystic fibrosis or autoimmune diseases.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed for this blood test. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood, and you’ll rest briefly afterward. If you’re on a low-fat diet for a few days before the test, your doctor may instruct you to follow that.

What the Results Mean

Lipase levels can rise after eating, so your doctor may ask you to fast for 8–12 hours before testing. High levels (above normal) often indicate acute pancreatitis or other pancreatic issues, while very high levels may signal severe inflammation. Results alone aren’t diagnostic—they’re usually interpreted alongside symptoms and other tests.

Common Causes of Abnormal Results

Elevated lipase can occur with pancreatitis (acute or chronic), gallbladder disease, kidney problems, or infections. Rarely, it may be linked to medications, trauma, or other rare conditions. Low levels are less common but could suggest malabsorption or certain liver diseases.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Lipase Test

Frequently asked questions

What symptoms might trigger this test?
Symptoms like severe stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, or unexplained weight loss may prompt a lipase test. Doctors also check it in people with a history of pancreatitis, chronic pancreatitis, or suspected digestive disorders.
Can diet affect my lipase levels?
Yes, eating fatty foods can temporarily raise lipase levels. If your doctor orders this test, they may ask you to fast for a few hours to get a more accurate baseline reading.
How long do results take?
Results are typically available within 1–2 business days, depending on your lab. Follow-up with your doctor to discuss any abnormal findings.
  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