What laboratory test is used to diagnose pancreatitis?

The diagnosis of pancreatitis often relies on laboratory tests that evaluate the levels of specific enzymes produced by the pancreas, and elevated lipase levels are considered a more reliable indicator of pancreatic inflammation.

Lipase is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in the digestion of fats, and when the pancreas is inflamed, as in pancreatitis, lipase is released into the bloodstream in higher amounts. This elevation typically occurs within 4 to 8 hours after the onset of abdominal pain and can remain elevated for several days, making it a valuable test for diagnosing acute pancreatitis.

While elevated amylase levels may also be detected and can indicate pancreatic issues, they are not as specific as lipase levels for diagnosing pancreatitis. Further, low albumin levels and low blood glucose levels do not directly indicate the presence of pancreatitis; rather, they can be associated with various other conditions and complications. Thus, elevated lipase levels stand out as the most direct laboratory test specifically linked to pancreatitis diagnosis.