LIPASE catalyzes the hydrolysis of ester bonds on the glycerol backbone of a lipid substrate.
In acute pancreatitis, lipase levels can rise 5 to 10-fold within 24 to 48 hours.
Increased activities have also been associated with pancreatic duct obstruction, pancreatic cancer, kidney disease, salivary gland inflammation, bowel obstruction, and other pancreatic diseases.
Decreased levels may indicate permanent damage to lipase-producing cells in the pancreas