Lipase (Serum) During Pregnancy
Laboratory Tests
Obie Editorial Team
What is Lipase?
One of the enzymes found in blood that helps break down fats is called lipase. When lipase levels are normal, fats are broken down before they reach the intestine where the fats are absorbed into the body. Most of the lipase used in the digestive process is produced in the pancreas, but small amounts also come in contact with food in the mouth and stomach. The pancreas also produces amylase, insulin and glucagon – so other tests are typically ordered with the lipase test to show a better picture of pancreatic health. Lipase production and use can be affected by celiac disease, cystic fibrosis and Crohn’s disease.
One of the enzymes found in blood that helps break down fats is called lipase. When lipase levels are normal, fats are broken down before they reach the intestine where the fats are absorbed into the body. Most of the lipase used in the digestive process is produced in the pancreas, but small amounts also come in contact with food in the mouth and stomach. The pancreas also produces amylase, insulin and glucagon – so other tests are typically ordered with the lipase test to show a better picture of pancreatic health. Lipase production and use can be affected by celiac disease, cystic fibrosis and Crohn’s disease.
Normal Value Range
- Negative Pregnancy Adult: 0 to 160 U/L or 0 to 2.7 µkat/L
- Pregnancy Trimester One: 0 to 104 U/L or 0 to 1.7 µkat/L
- Pregnancy Trimester Two: 0 to 140 U/L or 0 to 2.3 µkat/L
- Pregnancy Trimester Three: 5 to 148 U/L or 0.1 to 2.5 µkat/L
