Lab Values Low With Pancreatitis
Pancreatitis is a condition that involves inflammation of the pancreas. This can lead to a number of complications, including disruption of normal laboratory values. Some of the most common laboratory values that may be low in someone with pancreatitis include:
Serum Amylase: Serum amylase is an enzyme produced by the pancreas that helps digest carbohydrates. When the pancreas is inflamed, it may not be able to produce enough amylase, resulting in low serum amylase levels.
Serum Lipase: Serum lipase is a digestive enzyme produced by the pancreas that helps digest fats. When the pancreas is inflamed, it may not be able to produce enough lipase, resulting in low serum lipase levels.
Serum Calcium: Calcium is an important mineral that helps build strong bones and teeth. When the pancreas is inflamed, it may not be able to produce enough calcium, resulting in low serum calcium levels.
Albumin: Albumin is a protein that is produced in the liver and helps keep fluid in the blood vessels. When the liver is damaged, it may not be able to produce enough albumin, resulting in low levels in the blood.
White Blood Cell Count: White blood cells are part of the body's immune system and help fight infections. When inflammation is present, the body may produce too few white blood cells, resulting in a low white blood cell count.
Glucose: Glucose is a sugar that is produced in the body and serves as a source of energy. When the pancreas is inflamed, it may not be able to produce enough glucose, resulting in low glucose levels.
These are just some of the lab values that may be low in someone with pancreatitis. It is important to be aware of these lab values and to have them monitored closely if you have been diagnosed with pancreatitis.
