Get a free nursing lab values cheat sheet at NURSING.com/63labs

 

Objective:

Determine the significance and clinical use of  Lipase in clinical practice

 

Lab Test Name:

Lipase

 

Description:

Lipase

Measurement of lipase in the blood

• Used to diagnose pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer
• An enzyme produced by the pancreas
• Aids in breakdown of fats
• Released into the bloodstream as a result of damage to the pancreas

 

Indications:

Diagnose:

• Pancreatitis
  • Severe upper abdominal pain
  • Abdominal pain – radiates
  • Fever
  • N/V
  • Tachycardia
• Pancreatic cancer
  • Discoloration of urine and stool
  • Weight loss
  • Diabetes

 

Normal Therapeutic Values:

Normal: 

• 23-300 U/L

Collection:

• Plasma separator tube
• Serum separator tube

 

What would cause increased levels?

• Pancreatitis
• Pancreatic cyst
• Pseudocyst
• Pancreatic duct obstruction
• Renal failure
• Cholecystitis
• Peptic ulcer disease

 

What would cause decreased levels?

N/A