Pancreatitis: Tests
Inflammation of the pancreas. Gallstones or alcohol abuse most often cause this condition. Pancreatitis can be acute or chronic. Both forms are serious and can lead to complications.
Part of: Pancreatitis
About Pancreatitis Tests
While asking about a person’s medical history and conducting a thorough physical examination, the doctor will order a blood test to assist in the diagnosis. During acute pancreatitis, the blood contains at least three times the normal amount of amylase and lipase, digestive enzymes formed in the pancreas. Changes may also occur in other body chemicals such as glucose, calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, and bicarbonate. After the person’s condition improves, the levels usually return to normal.
Diagnosing acute pancreatitis is often difficult because of the deep location of the pancreas.
More on tests for: Acute Pancreatitis
More on tests for: Chronic Pancreatitis NIH – National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases