Lipase

Clinical Biochemistry

Background Information

• 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.

Patient Preparation

No specific patient preparation is required.

Sample Requirements

For adults, 5 ml of blood taken into a narrow plain gold top gel tube (or 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 referred to an external laboratory for analysis with results expected back within 1 week.

Reference Ranges

Ranges and interpretation reported as provided by referral laboratory.

Further Information

For further information about lipase visit Lab Tests Online

Page last updated: 03/11/2025 | Page last reviewed: 03/11/2025