Amylase and lipase
pancreas blood test · blood amylase · blood lipase · pancreatic enzymes test
This blood test checks two enzymes made by the pancreas. When the pancreas is inflamed, their levels in the blood go up.
For severe pain in the upper belly, especially pain that spreads to the back, when pancreatitis is suspected, and to follow pancreas conditions.
⏱ Duration: the blood draw usually takes 5 minutes; urgent results come in a few hours, usually in 1 to 2 days
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Food. Usually on an empty stomach: 8 to 12 hours without food. Water is fine. If your belly hurts badly, the test is done right away. Do not wait.
- The day before. No alcohol or fatty food.
- Medicines. Do not stop anything on your own. Tell your doctor what you take.
What to bring
- Your referral
- Your ID
- Past test results, if any
How it goes
- You sit down, and a band is tied above your elbow
- The skin is wiped with antiseptic
- Blood is taken from a vein into a tube
- The band is removed, and a cotton pad is pressed on the spot
What you'll feel
- A quick prick, like a pinch
- Sometimes slight dizziness. Tell the nurse, and they will help you lie down
Afterwards
- Press the cotton pad for 3 to 5 minutes
- Results usually come in 1 to 2 days, urgent ones in a few hours
- The doctor reads the test together with your symptoms and an ultrasound
Contact a doctor straight away if
- Severe belly pain spreading to the back, with vomiting: call emergency services
- Pain with fever or yellow skin or eyes: see a doctor right away or call emergency services
Common questions
If the enzymes are normal, is there definitely no pancreatitis?
Not always. Sometimes the enzymes drop quickly. The doctor also looks at your pain and an ultrasound.
How is lipase different from amylase?
Lipase points more precisely to the pancreas. Amylase can be high for other reasons too.