Lipase

Chemical Pathology

Notes

• Serum amylase is the locally available test for the investigation and management of suspected pancreatitis.
• Lipase is not assayed at GHNHSFT but is occasionally sent for analysis to another laboratory when this is appropriate.
• The main indication for lipase is in monitoring patients with kidney-pancreas transplants as lipase is used along with amylase as a marker of rejection.
• If lipase is considered essential for patient management in other situations, then requests should be discussed with the duty biochemist.

Sample requirements

For adults, 5 ml of blood taken into a narrow plain gold top gel tube (or 3.5mL rust top for the Acute Unit)

Storage/transport

Send samples at ambient temperature to the laboratory as soon as possible after collection; if unavoidable, and clinically appropriate samples can be stored refrigerated overnight.

Required information

Relevant clinical details including reason for the request.

Turnaround times

Samples are sent for analysis to North Bristol Trust NHS Trust with results normally available within 1 week.

Reference ranges

0-9 years : <30 U/L

10-17 years: <40 U/L

≥18 years: <67 U/L

Further information

Lab Tests Online

Page last updated: 30/11/2023