Other
Lipase
Other
Lipase blood test.
VAT-exempt medical service
Lipase is a digestive enzyme mainly produced by the pancreas. Its primary function is to break down dietary fats into free fatty acids and glycerol. In blood testing, lipase levels are most commonly used to assess pancreatic health, particularly when acute pancreatitis is suspected. Lipase is considered more sensitive and specific than amylase for detecting pancreatic inflammation.
A lipase test is crucial when investigating acute abdominal pain, particularly if symptoms like nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, or upper abdominal discomfort are present. It is the preferred marker for detecting pancreatic inflammation and is also used to monitor chronic pancreatitis and other gastrointestinal conditions that affect fat digestion.
What a high value can mean
Elevated lipase levels usually signal inflammation of the pancreas — most commonly acute pancreatitis. Other possible causes include chronic pancreatitis, gallstones, pancreatic duct blockage, kidney failure, coeliac disease, peptic ulcer perforation, or certain cancers. Because lipase is cleared by the kidneys, impaired kidney function can also raise levels.
What a low value can mean
Low lipase levels are less common and often not clinically concerning. However, they may indicate reduced pancreatic enzyme production, which can occur in advanced chronic pancreatitis, cystic fibrosis, or other conditions that impair fat digestion. Reference range is typically 0.3-1.0 ukat/L.
No special preparation is typically required. Your doctor may advise fasting if the test is part of a broader panel. Bring valid ID to the sampling clinic.
Order your test
Choose your test and pay online. Your lab referral is created straight away.
Give your sample
Visit any of our partner sampling locations. No appointment needed at most of them.
The lab analyses it
Your sample is analysed at an accredited Swedish laboratory.
Get your results
Your values appear in your account with reference ranges and an explanation of each marker.
Yes. Lipase is considered more sensitive and specific than amylase for detecting pancreatic inflammation, and it remains elevated for a longer period after the onset of pancreatitis.
Yes. Lipase is cleared by the kidneys, so impaired kidney function can lead to elevated lipase levels even without pancreatic disease.
Normal adult levels typically fall within 0.3-1.0 ukat/L, though reference ranges may vary slightly between laboratories.
Yes. Gallstones can block the pancreatic duct and cause pancreatitis, which leads to elevated lipase levels.