Pancreatic Lipase Activity (Serum)
This test measures the activity of pancreatic lipase, an enzyme produced by your pancreas that helps break down fats in your digestive system.
["High levels may signal pancreatitis or other digestive issues; low levels could indicate pancreatic problems or malabsorption."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 35364-9
- Short code
- Lipase sp1 p sincalide Fld-cCnc
- Synonyms
- Lipase sp1 p sincalide Fld-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 Is This Test Done?
Your doctor may order this test to diagnose or monitor conditions affecting your pancreas, such as pancreatitis, pancreatic cancer, or chronic pancreatitis. It can also help identify digestive disorders or rule out other causes of abdominal pain or unexplained weight loss.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if your blood is drawn early in the morning. Bring any medications you’re taking to your appointment.
What Happens During the Test?
A healthcare provider will draw a small amount of blood from a vein in your arm. The blood sample is sent to a lab to measure lipase activity, which is then compared to expected levels for your health.
What the Results Mean
Results are interpreted based on your symptoms and medical history. Elevated levels often suggest inflammation or damage to the pancreas, while normal or low levels may indicate no immediate concern but don’t rule out all conditions.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Pancreatic lipase is highly specific to pancreatic tissue, so elevated levels strongly suggest pancreatitis (acute or chronic), pancreatic pseudocysts, or other pancreatic disorders. It can also help differentiate between gastrointestinal issues (like gallbladder disease) and pancreatic problems. Low levels may indicate pancreatic insufficiency or conditions affecting fat digestion, such as celiac disease or cystic fibrosis.
Short name
Pancreatic Lipase
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
Can I eat or drink anything before this test?
What other tests might be done alongside this one?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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