A health professional uses a needle to take a blood sample, usually from the arm.

Watch

When a blood sample is taken, you may feel nothing at all from the needle. Or you might feel a quick sting or pinch.

There is very little chance of having a problem from this test. When a blood sample is taken, a small bruise may form at the site.

Normal

Each lab has a different range for what's normal. Your lab report should show the range that your lab uses for each test. The normal range is just a guide. Your doctor will also look at your results based on your age, health, and other factors. A value that isn't in the normal range may still be normal for you.

High values

A high lipase level may be caused by:

• Diseases of the pancreas (Figure 2), such as pancreatitis or cancer of the pancreas.
• Problems with the gallbladder, such as gallstones and inflammation (cholecystitis).
• Chronic kidney disease.
• Problems with the intestines, such as bowel blockage (obstruction) or tissue death (infarction).
• Infection, inflammation, or cancer of a salivary gland.
• Peptic ulcer disease.
• Primary biliary cirrhosis, a serious condition that damages the liver and keeps it from working the way it should.
• Substance use disorder.

Figure 2 - Pancreas

The pancreas is an organ in the upper belly, behind the stomach and close to the spine. It makes digestive enzymes that your body uses to break down and process food. The pancreas also makes insulin, the hormone that regulates sugar (glucose) in the blood.

Current as of: October 19, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.