A lipase test is a blood test that measures the level of lipase in the blood. Lipase is an enzyme produced by the pancreas that helps the body digest fats. The test is used to diagnose acute (sudden) pancreatitis and other disorders of the pancreas. Higher levels of lipase in the blood may indicate a problem with the pancreas, such as acute pancreatitis or chronic pancreatitis. Lipase testing is sometimes used to diagnose other health conditions including intestinal obstruction or injury, pancreatic cysts, peritonitis, and cystic fibrosis. During the test, a healthcare professional will take a blood sample from a vein in the arm using a small needle. The test usually takes less than five minutes. The normal range for adults younger than 60 is 10 to 140 U/L, while normal results for adults ages 60 and older is 24 to 151 U/L. If the blood has 3 to 10 times the normal level of lipase, then its likely that the person has acute pancreatitis. The test poses very little risk, but there is a slight risk of bleeding, infection, bruising, and feeling lightheaded.