🧪 Amylase / Lipase Interpretation
Interpret amylase and lipase in acute pancreatitis (lipase > 3× ULN), with non-pancreatic elevations and pitfalls. Browser-side reference.
Amylase / Lipase Interpretation
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When to use
Apply the enzyme criterion within the Atlanta 2-of-3 diagnosis; grade severity with a scoring system, not the enzyme value.
How it works
Acute pancreatitis = 2 of 3: typical pain, lipase/amylase > 3× ULN, characteristic imaging.
Key points
- Lipase is more specific and persistent than amylase.
- The enzyme level does not reflect severity — use BISAP/Ranson/CTSI.
- Macroamylasaemia gives persistently high amylase without symptoms.
- In hypertriglyceridaemic pancreatitis, check triglycerides.
References
Decision support for licensed clinicians only; not a substitute for clinical judgement, diagnosis or local protocols.