Lab Markers of Pancreatitis
Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas, a vital organ that produces enzymes and hormones that help to digest food and regulate blood sugar levels. When the pancreas is inflamed, it can lead to serious complications, such as abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and even death. To diagnose pancreatitis, doctors may run tests to measure the levels of certain lab markers in the blood. The most common lab markers of pancreatitis include amylase, lipase, and white blood cells (WBCs).
Amylase is an enzyme produced by the pancreas that helps to break down carbohydrates and starches in the digestive system. An elevated amylase level in the blood is often an indication of pancreatitis.
Lipase is also an enzyme produced by the pancreas that helps to break down fats in the digestive system. Elevated lipase levels in the blood can be an indication of pancreatitis.
White Blood Cells (WBCs) are a type of immune cell that helps to fight off infection and protect the body from disease. An increase in the number of WBCs in the blood can indicate that the body is fighting an infection, such as pancreatitis.
