What causes increased lipase levels?

Answer by  starmlw (960)

Lipase is an enzyme released by the pancrease and used during digestion of food. Increased Lipase may be an indication that the pancrease is not functioning properly. Pancreatitis or inflamation of the pancrease is the most common reason for increased lipase. Pancreatitis can be caused by infection of the pancrease.

Answer by  fishy (1085)

There are a few different causes, but they are not limited to bowel obstruction, ulcers, kiney disease or salivary gland problems.

Answer by  bubbyboy (9929)

Several factors may increase lipase levels. Inflammation of the pancreas, gall bladder issues. Kidney failure can also cause this condition. Your doctor will do tests to determine and treat the cause or causes. An increase of less than five times the normal level is usually a sign of a disorder outside the pancreas such as bowel obstrution.

Answer by  Bobinski (1652)

A bowel obstruction can be a cause of increased or elevated lipase levels. Other causes are duodenal ulcer, pancreatitis, gastroenteritis, bowel infarction, cholycystitis and pancreatic cancer. Drugs such as corticosteroids can increase lipase levels. A normal lipase level is between 200 and 300 so anything above that would be considered an increased level.