Lipase - Serum

This test is used to monitor the amount of lipase present in the blood. The test for lipase is often used to monitor and diagnose acute pancreatitis. Sometimes it may also be used to monitor and diagnose chronic pancreatitis and other disorders involving the pancreas. Pancreas is a vital organ that is located in the abdomen. It converts the food we eat into fuel for the body's cells. The pancreas has two main functions - helps in digestion and regulation of blood sugar. An enzyme, secreted by the pancreas, lipase helps in the breakdown of food in the stomach. If there is an injury/infection/disease the function of the pancreas may be impaired, which may lead to increased or decreased production of lipase. This test is also used in the diagnosis of various other conditions such as pancreatic tumours, cysts, etc.