Pancreas Profile

The Lipase test measures the total amount of lipase enzyme present in the blood. The lipase enzyme breaks down fats (lipids) into smaller molecules. In the gut, it is crucial for digestion, transportation, and the usage of dietary fats and oils. The main source of lipase is the pancreas–the same gland that makes insulin. After a meal, your pancreas releases pancreatic lipase into your digestive tract, where it breaks down triglycerides from fats and oils into smaller molecules like monoglycerides and fatty acids that are easier to absorb. A deranged level of lipase may indicate disease affecting the pancreas.

An Amylase test determines the amount of amylase enzyme in your blood. This enzyme helps in the breakdown of complex dietary carbohydrates into simple carbohydrates for absorption. The digestion of carbohydrates begins in the mouth since the amylase is secreted by the salivary glands too. However, the majority of the amylase is produced by the pancreas and secreted into the duodenum of the small intestine. The amount of amylase in the blood rises either due to its increased secretion into the blood or decreased elimination by the kidneys. Higher levels of amylase for longer periods indicate pancreatic complications and need medical intervention.