A lipase test is a blood test that measures the level of a digestive enzyme called lipase in your blood. It may help diagnose or monitor problems with your pancreas, such as acute pancreatitis, cystic fibrosis, or pancreatic cancer. Lipase is a class of enzymes that catalyzes the hydrolysis of fats. Some lipases display broad substrate scope including esters of cholesterol, phospholipids, and of lipid-soluble vitamins [1][2] and sphingomyelinases; [3] however, these are usually treated separately from "conventional" lipases. Understanding Lipase Enzymes " Lipase is an enzyme that assists in the breakdown of triglycerides into fatty acids and glycerol." Lipase enzymes are vital for the digestion and transportation of lipids in almost all living organisms. A lipase test checks the level of lipase in your blood and how well your pancreas works. Lipase is a protein that helps break down fat and absorb it. Learn about the test, how to prepare, and what the results mean.
