Final answer:
For acute pancreatitis, increased blood glucose levels are an expected laboratory finding due to impaired insulin production. This is supported by the pancreas' role in insulin production and the effect of minerals on insulin release.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the case of acute pancreatitis, an expected laboratory finding is increased glucose levels. This occurs due to the pancreas being inflamed and unable to produce enough insulin, which is essential for regulating blood sugar levels. Insulin cannot be released effectively in the absence of important minerals such as calcium and zinc from the islets of Langerhans within the pancreas, leading to hyperglycemia. Hence, 'c- Increased glucose' is the correct answer among the options provided.
On the other hand, decreased levels of calcium can often be seen in acute pancreatitis, not increased levels, ruling out option 'a'. Bilirubin levels typically increase in cases of jaundice, which can be a sign of pancreatitis, thereby making 'b - Decreased bilirubin' incorrect. Finally, alkaline phosphate (ALP) levels rise with conditions such as large bile duct obstruction, or liver diseases, which are not directly associated with acute pancreatitis, which renders 'd- Decreased alkaline phosphate' incorrect as well.