Introduction
Pancreatitis is a condition that affects the pancreas, an organ responsible for producing hormones and enzymes that help the body digest food. It is a serious condition that can cause serious complications such as abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and fever. It can also lead to long-term problems such as difficulty digesting food and malabsorption. One of the ways that doctors diagnose pancreatitis is by looking at lab values, as certain values can indicate the presence of the condition.
What Lab Values Change With Pancreatitis?
When pancreatitis is present, there are a number of lab values that will be different from the normal range. These include elevated levels of amylase, lipase, and white blood cells. Amylase and lipase are enzymes produced in the pancreas that help break down carbohydrates and fats. Elevated levels of these enzymes indicate that the pancreas is not functioning properly. White blood cells, which help the body fight infection, may also be elevated due to inflammation in the pancreas. Other possible changes include elevated levels of bicarbonate, calcium, and potassium.
How Are Lab Values Used to Diagnose Pancreatitis?
Lab values are an important part of diagnosing pancreatitis. Elevated levels of amylase and lipase indicate that the pancreas is not functioning properly. This is usually the first indication that something is wrong and may lead to further tests to confirm a diagnosis of pancreatitis. In addition, elevated levels of white blood cells and other lab values can help doctors identify the cause of the pancreatitis, which can help determine the best course of treatment.
Conclusion
Lab values can play an important role in diagnosing pancreatitis. Elevated levels of amylase and lipase, as well as white blood cells and other values, can indicate the presence of the condition. This can help doctors determine the best course of treatment for the patient.
