Tongue lipase. What is lipase in a biochemical blood test? Lipase: what is it?

Complex food entering our body cannot be accepted by the digestive system in its pure form. It must first be split into smaller components. This is done by enzymes: amylase, lipase, protease, which are naturally produced by tissues. If their production is insufficient, the doctor may prescribe an additional course of enzymes. Based on the level of natural enzymes in the blood, it is sometimes possible to make a preliminary assessment of certain organs, for example, the pancreas.

If lipase is elevated in the blood, the reasons may be hidden in diseases of varying severity occurring in the body. But before listing the reasons for an increase or decrease in lipase in a diagnostic form, it is worth understanding what it is, what the functions and norms of lipase are in humans.

What is lipase?

This is a digestive enzyme belonging to the class of hydrolases. This definition probably didn’t explain much to you. To put it simply, lipase is a protein compound that is produced in several areas of our body in order to play a role in a number of processes, including:

Digestion and fractionation of fats. This is their main function;
Participation in obtaining energy by the body;
Participation in the absorption of certain vitamins and fatty acids;

Where does lipase come from?

Depending on the tissues in which lipase is produced, it differs slightly in function, although its main role - the breakdown of fats - remains unchanged. Lipase is produced:

Pancreas

This is the so-called pancreatic lipase; it is normally found in the blood greatest number compared to other types.

Lungs;
Oral cavity babies.

In this case, they talk about lingual lipase, its main role is to help break down fats that come from mother's milk.

Liver;

This lipase regulates the level of lipids in the plasma, and without it the absorption of certain compounds (for example, chylomicrons) is impossible.

Intestines;
Stomach

Here, lipase additionally stimulates the destruction of tributyrin oil to produce more digestible substances.

It is believed that highest value has pancreatic lipase. Based on its level, one can assume the presence of pancreatitis, its form and complications.

However, based only on the amount of pancreatic lipase, it is premature to draw a conclusion about the presence or absence of certain diseases. A comprehensive examination of the patient is necessary. Additionally, an analysis may be prescribed for amylase (an enzyme that breaks down starch), which also plays a significant role when it comes to diseases of the pancreas. More detailed features of an enzyme such as amylase were discussed in our other article.

Normal in blood

If we are talking about deviations up and down, there is a numerical value for the amount of lipase taken as the norm.

Up to 18 years of age, it is acceptable to have 0-130 units of lipase in 1 ml of blood; for older people, this range expands to 190 units.

The level of lipase in the blood of women does not differ from that characteristic of men.

Compared with blood amylase, lipase may remain normal in some liver diseases, ectopic pregnancy and other dangerous conditions, which classifies lipase analysis as specific.

Lipase is elevated in the blood

For a doctor, this is valuable diagnostic information that can be used to suggest further examination or prescribe treatment. Diseases in which the level of this enzyme in the blood increases may be the following:

Acute pancreatitis;
Cholecystitis;
Endocrine diseases;
Cholestasis;
Parotitis;
Heart attack;
Obesity;
Pancreatic oncology;
Gout;
Intestinal obstruction;
Ulcer of the stomach or other tissues;
Taking a number of medications;

It is also worth pointing out that an increase in lipase in the blood accompanies injuries and fractures.

The development of pancreatitis does not occur immediately; lipase activity can be detected only on the third day, while on the first and second days lipase is slightly increased. There are additional nuances in diagnosing pancreatic diseases. For example, with fatty pancreatic necrosis, blood lipase will be normal, but with acute pancreatitis it increases more than three times. Acute pancreatitis develops rapidly, and lipase begins to increase sharply 2-5 hours after the gland is damaged.

Lipase is low in the blood

Another option for lipase deviation from the norm is its decrease. Low levels of this enzyme in the blood may indicate one of the following conditions:

A cancerous tumor of any location other than the pancreas itself.
Poor nutrition with excess fatty foods.
Hereditary trait: high levels of lipids in the blood.
Transition of acute pancreatitis into the chronic stage.
Removal of the pancreas.
Cystic fibrosis.
Hereditary hyperlipidemia.

Preparation for enzyme analysis

Before donating blood for a lipase test, you must give up fatty, spicy and too spicy foods one day before. The test is taken in the morning on an empty stomach.

Today, the enzymatic method for determining lipase is common, but immunochemical methods also exist. They differ in the mechanism and requirements for medical personnel.

In rare cases, a lipase test is not performed under the conditions described above, without prior minimal preparation of the patient. This is done if an urgent result is needed.

If you still have questions about what lipase is in a biochemical blood test, leave them in the comments.

If pancreatitis is suspected, the doctor will prescribe a lipase test, which determines the level of this enzyme in the blood.

The pancreas produces lipase during digestion. This enzyme helps the intestines break down fats. When the pancreas becomes inflamed, it secretes additional lipase.

A lipase test can show whether lipase levels in the blood are high. High levels may indicate a problem with the pancreas.

The doctor may also test levels of another enzyme called amylase along with a lipase test. This can provide Additional information, which will help diagnose a pancreatic disorder.

Let's look at the procedure, results and levels of lipase in the blood, as well as what to do if lipase is elevated.

A doctor will usually order a blood lipase test if a person shows signs of a pancreatic disorder.

Some symptoms include:

fever;
fatty stools;
nausea with or without vomiting;
severe pain in the upper part of the stomach;
rapid pulse;
weight loss;
lack of appetite;
backache.

Your doctor may order an amylase test along with a lipase test. Amylase test results can show whether a person has pancreatic disease.

Amylase levels may indicate the following disorders:

pancreatitis or swelling of the pancreas, which may be chronic or acute;
inflammation of the gallbladder;
celiac disease;
kidney disease;
pancreas cancer.

Once diagnosed, the doctor may use lipase and amylase tests to monitor the patient's condition.

How is a lipase test performed?

The lipase test is performed like any other simple blood test. The laboratory assistant tightens the vein with a tourniquet. Then he selects a vein, disinfects the puncture site and draws blood from the vein.

The technician then sends the blood sample to a laboratory where lipase levels are measured and analyzed.

The time it takes to get results depends on the circumstances. Ask your doctor when the test results are ready.

How to prepare for the analysis?

Preparation for blood lipase testing is minimal. It is usually necessary to take the test on an empty stomach, without eating for 8 to 12 hours, before the blood test.

A person taking any medications or supplements should tell their doctor in advance because some substances may interfere with lipase test results. Your doctor may tell you not to take certain medications before the test.

The following drugs may affect blood lipase levels:

codeine;
contraception;
thiazide diuretics;
morphine.

Blood lipase levels

Normal ranges for results vary depending on the following factors:

age;
disease history;
testing method;

Because of the variance, it is important to discuss the results with your doctor. The same result may indicate a problem in one person but be within normal limits in another.

When a laboratory provides test results, lipase levels are usually measured in units per milliliter of blood.

Blood lipase levels:

An exacerbation of pancreatitis causes an increase in lipase levels in the blood within 4-8 hours. These levels may remain elevated for up to 2 weeks.

High lipase levels can also indicate other problems, such as kidney or intestinal problems.

Unusually high or low levels of lipase in the blood can signal a variety of problems.

What does elevated lipase in the blood mean?

Elevated lipase levels may indicate a number of conditions, such as:

acute pancreatitis;
gallstone gastroenteritis, which occurs when a virus causes inflammation of the stomach;
intestinal problems;
cholecystitis or sudden inflammation of the gallbladder
celiac disease
cirrhosis of the liver
pancreas cancer
renal failure
mumps;
peritonitis.

Increased lipase in the blood can also be caused by taking various medications - antibiotics, analgesics, etc.

The interpretation of the test results and diagnosis must be made by a doctor.

What does low lipase in the blood mean?

Significantly low blood lipase may indicate ongoing damage to the pancreatic cells that produce lipase. This may be the result of long-term disorders, such as:

chronic pancreatitis;
cystic fibrosis.

Also, low lipase in the blood may indicate:

tumor growth in various organs;
peritonitis;
inflammation and neoplasms of the gallbladder;
inflammation and neoplasms of the pancreas;
perforated stomach ulcer, etc.

How lipase levels decrease

To reduce lipase in the blood, it is necessary to treat the disease that caused its increase.

Acute pancreatitis is one of the most common problems associated with high levels of lipase in the blood. When a doctor discovers this pathology on early stage, treatment may include:

intravenous injections of drugs;
drugs to combat pain;
refusal to eat for the recommended period, then a soft diet.

The doctor will also treat any problems caused by pancreatitis, such as gallstones or increased level calcium. Some medications can cause acute pancreatitis, in which case your doctor will change the type of medication or dosage.

You can reduce your risk of developing acute pancreatitis by following a healthy and balanced diet and avoiding excessive alcohol consumption.

Once the cause is treated, blood lipase levels should return to normal.

Forecast

The lipase test is relatively non-invasive and is unlikely to cause any complications.

Test results can help your doctor diagnose acute pancreatitis and other health problems affecting the pancreas.

Detecting and treating acute pancreatitis early can prevent worsening of your health. Left untreated, pancreatitis can be fatal.

Lipase is an enzyme that acts as a solvent, fraction separator and digestive agent for fats in digestive tract. The substance presented is produced by the lungs, pancreas, intestines and liver. Each enzyme listed is responsible for the breakdown of a specific group of fats.

Functions of lipase in the human body

As mentioned above, lipase is produced for the purpose of breaking down, processing, and separating fats. However, the most important role is played by the pancreatic enzyme, which ensures complete and timely digestion of lipids. It is output to duodenum gastrointestinal tract as an inactive enzyme. Thanks to the action of bile acid and another pancreatic enzyme, the substance is converted into an active type.

In addition, lipase is responsible for the body’s absorption of vitamins D, A, E, K, fatty acids, and also takes part in energy metabolism.

Blood lipase level

The level of lipase in the blood serum of men and women does not differ significantly. An adequate level of enzyme in the blood is considered to be:

for children under seventeen years old – 0-130 units/ml;
for adults – 0-190 units/ml.

If lipase levels are elevated, this may indicate the presence of the following diseases:

soft tissue injuries, bone fractures;
intestinal obstruction, heart attack, peritonitis;
pancreatitis, pancreatic cysts, tumors;
biliary colic, chronic gallbladder disease;
renal failure;
breast cancer;
diseases that are accompanied by disturbances in metabolic processes. These include diabetes, obesity, gout;
parotitis.

If lipase is elevated, this may be caused by taking certain medications.

If lipase is low, this may be caused by cancer. However, this is not the case for pancreatic cancer. In addition, low levels may be due to poor nutrition.

Lipase as a food supplement

Lipase is registered as a food additive under number E1104. The sources of this substance are salivary glands cattle, their stomachs, abomasums, forestomachs. At 70 degrees Celsius the additive becomes inactive.

E1104 is widely used in food production, and specifically in baking, where it plays the role of an agent that improves the quality and organoleptic characteristics of gluten. In finished products food supplement is able to increase the shelf life, as well as the structural and mechanical characteristics of bakery products. Thanks to the use of the additive, the amount of fat-containing raw materials during bread baking is reduced, without affecting the quality.

The food additive is used during the manufacture of confectionery products, in particular chocolate, toffee, and caramel. This is explained by the fact that the substance can influence the formation of free fatty acids, which enhance the aromatic qualities of the finished product. In cheeses, the additive plays the role of an improver of aroma and taste characteristics, as well as an accelerator of the ripening process.

Lipase plays the role of a catalyst in the technology of creating alternative fuels during the processing of fur and leather. In medicine, the substance is used to correct the functioning of the pancreas, as well as during digestive processes.

The food additive E1104 does not pose a danger to human well-being and health. However, its use is prohibited on the territory of Russia due to the fact that it can lead to technical damage to goods in excess quantities. The latter, in turn, can provoke the formation of toxins and the growth of harmful microorganisms.

Lipase rate

There are certain norms for lipase levels in the blood.

Children under 17 years of age should contain from 0 to 130 units of lipase in 1 ml of blood.

The permissible rate of lipase for adults, regardless of gender, is 0-190 units of enzyme per 1 ml of blood.

Lipase levels are detected using a blood test. It is usually prescribed to patients with chronic or acute pancreatitis, liver cirrhosis, acute cholecystitis, diabetic ketoacidosis, chronic and acute renal failure, acute intestinal obstruction, gastric ulcers, as well as those who have undergone organ transplant surgery.

Analysis of lipase levels is especially important for those with damaged pancreas. A blood test for lipase and another enzyme, amylase, gives an accurate result in 98% and indicates a disease of the pancreas.

How to prepare for a lipase blood test

Blood for analysis is taken from a vein on an empty stomach. A person should not eat anything fatty, spicy or spicy 12 hours before blood sampling. Only in extreme cases, analysis for lipase levels is carried out without preparation, at any time of the day.

Today, two methods are used to test blood for lipase content: immunochemical and enzymatic. The second one is used more often because the result can be obtained faster with its help.

What does an elevated lipase level mean?

If lipase is elevated, doctors may suspect a person has the following diseases:

biliary colic;
pancreatitis in the acute stage or aggravated chronic pancreatitis;
neoplasms in the pancreas, incl. cysts or pseudocysts;
metabolic disorders (obesity, gout, diabetes, etc.);
heart attack or intestinal obstruction;
perforation of the internal genital organs;
peritonitis;
intrahepatic cholestasis;
perforated stomach ulcer;
mumps - if it is accompanied by damage to the pancreas.

The fact that lipase is elevated may also indicate that the person is taking Heparin, Indomethacin, narcotic analgesics, or barbiturates.

Although blood tests for lipase levels are not routine in the setting of physical injuries, elevated levels of this enzyme may occur in people with bone fractures and other serious injuries.

The level of pancreatic lipase is very important for diagnosing diseases, but it is difficult to make an accurate diagnosis using only such a blood test - on the first day of exacerbation of pancreatitis, lipase increases moderately and only on the third day can serious enzyme activity be detected. So, if damage to the pancreas is accompanied by the appearance of edema, the level of lipase is within the normal range; if the patient has hemorrhagic pancreatic necrosis (one of the complications of acute pancreatitis), then the amount of lipase will exceed the norm by three or more times. And if a person has fatty pancreatic necrosis, then there will not be a significant increase in lipase levels.

The prognosis for damage to the pancreas is considered unfavorable if the lipase level is increased 10 times or more, and if within three days it does not decrease to three times the norm.

Increased lipase activity usually persists for 3-7 days from the onset of inflammation, and lipase levels begin to recover only after 7-14 days.

What does a low lipase level mean?

The fact that lipase is low may indicate the presence of cancer. The exception is pancreatic cancer.

In addition, lipase can be reduced due to hereditary hyperlipidemia (increased levels of lipids in the blood), poor nutrition, which is dominated by fats.

A lack of lipase may also indicate that pancreatitis has passed from an acute to a chronic form.

Various diseases of the digestive system often have the same symptoms. Therefore, in the diagnostic process, a biochemical blood test is necessarily used. During this examination, the content of a substance such as lipase is determined. Let's consider what it is, what is the normal level of the substance in the blood and what reasons can provoke deviations from normal values.

In the process of digesting food, enzymes play an important role. These are specific substances synthesized in the body, their function is to accelerate biochemical reactions to convert nutrients into forms that can be absorbed by cells. One of these enzymes is lipase, which is necessary for the absorption of fats.

Functions

The lipase enzyme is a water-soluble substance that acts as a catalyst for the dissolution, fractionation and absorption of fats, fatty acids and fat-soluble vitamins.

Advice! Fat-soluble substances include vitamins of groups A, E, K, D.

Lipase is synthesized in different parts In the body, depending on their location, the following types of enzymes are distinguished:

pancreatic lipase, produced in the pancreas;
hepatic;
intestinal;

pulmonary

Advice! Infants produce another type of enzyme - lingual. It is produced by glands located in the mouth.

All types of enzyme perform one function - the absorption of fats. However, pancreatic lipase is considered the most active enzyme. The enzyme enters the digestive system in an inactive form (prolipase). When interacting with bile and other enzymes, it is converted into an active form and takes part in digestive processes.

Pancreatic lipase takes part in the processing of fats that have already been emulsified by bile. Other types of this enzyme are involved in the breakdown of other types of fats.

Indications

The lipase synthesized by the pancreas is of greatest diagnostic importance. When organ cells are renewed, some of the enzymes enter the bloodstream. The enzyme enters the kidneys and then enters the blood again.

If pancreatic tissue is damaged as a result of disease or injury, there is a significant increase in lipase levels in the blood. Therefore, most often, an analysis for the content of this enzyme is prescribed in the process of diagnosing acute pancreatitis. This disease is characterized by the following changes in lipase levels in the blood:

the concentration of the enzyme in the blood increases within 4-8 hours after the first attack;
the maximum enzyme content is observed one day after the first manifestation of the disease;
the high concentration remains for 6-7 days, then begins to gradually decrease.

Advice! When diagnosing acute pancreatitis, a comprehensive biochemical analysis is prescribed, during which the concentration of two enzymes is determined - lipase and amylase. This analysis is highly informative; it can be used to diagnose acute pancreatitis in 99% of cases.

If pancreatitis is chronic, then an analysis of the concentration of lipase in the blood is less informative. Affected chronic inflammation cells stop synthesizing enzymes in the required quantities. Therefore, with this disease, the enzyme content is normal or even reduced.

In addition, an analysis for the content of this enzyme can be prescribed when diagnosing the following diseases:

acute cholecystitis;
cirrhosis of the liver;
renal failure;
obstruction of the small intestine;
alcoholism;

diabetic ketoacidosis;
mumps epidemic (a comprehensive analysis for amylase and lipase is required; with mumps, the content of the first enzyme increases, lipase remains within normal limits).

Advice! A test for lipase levels may also be prescribed during a preventive examination, for example, before admission to a hospital.

Carrying out the procedure

The material for the study is venous blood. Samples are taken from a peripheral vein, usually located on the inner bend of the elbow. Two research methods are used in laboratories:

enzymatic;
immunochemical.

The first method is used more often, since it can be used to quickly obtain results, which is very important in the diagnosis of acute conditions.

Preparation

In order for the analysis to show correct results, it is important that the patient prepares for it correctly. The rules for preparing for it are standard for all biochemical studies:

the last meal should be 12 hours before sampling;
the day before the test, you need to avoid alcohol and excessively fatty foods;
You should not smoke at least an hour before the test.

Norms and deviations

When performing tests for lipase, the enzyme level does not depend on gender:

for the adult population (men and women), the norm for the content of this enzyme is up to 190 U/ml;
for patients under 17 years of age, the norm is slightly lower - up to 130 U/ml.

Excess

If the norm is increased, then this condition may have the following reasons:

Pancreatitis in acute form. With this disease, the norm can be exceeded several tens of times.
Chronic pancreatitis. In this disease, lipase is not always elevated. Usually, the excess is not too significant, it lasts about seven days, and then begins to decrease. If, in the chronic form of the disease, the norm of lipase content is exceeded 10 times or more, then this indicates an extremely severe course of the disease.

Neoplasms in the pancreas. Benign and malignant cysts and tumors can cause changes in blood composition;
Intestinal obstruction or infarction.
Gallbladder diseases, cholestasis.
Diseases in which fat metabolism is disrupted - obesity, diabetes, gout.
Peritonitis. In this case, inflammation of the disease affects all organs. abdominal cavity, including the pancreas.

An increase in the level of this enzyme during mumps is evidence that the inflammation has spread to the pancreas. In addition, a sharp increase in enzyme levels is observed with injuries leading to rupture of internal organs.

Low level

A decrease in the enzyme level below 7 U/l can be caused by the following reasons:

hereditary diseases associated with metabolic disorders: hyperlipidemia, cystic fibrosis;
decreased pancreatic function due to pathological changes in organ tissue;
oncology (the tumor can be localized anywhere except the pancreas).

So, the digestive enzyme lipase is a substance that takes part in the reactions of fat breakdown. An analysis for the content of this enzyme is most often prescribed in the process of diagnosing acute pancreatitis. However, changes in the level of this enzyme can also be observed in other diseases.