Question

In pancreatitis, the patient may present with fever, tachycardia, upper abdominal tenderness, and absent bowel sounds. Is amylase or lipase more specific for pancreatitis?

Answer 1

Both amylase and lipase can be elevated in pancreatitis, but lipase is generally considered more specific for pancreatitis.

Step-by-step explanation:

Both amylase and lipase are enzymes produced in the pancreas. In cases of pancreatitis, the pancreas becomes inflamed and these enzymes can leak into the blood. Blood tests can be done to measure the levels of amylase and lipase in order to diagnose pancreatitis. While both amylase and lipase can be elevated in pancreatitis, lipase is generally considered to be more specific for pancreatitis.