PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

In cases of pancreatitis, which enzyme is more specific for the condition?

1. Amylase

2. Lipase

3. Both are equally specific

4. Trypsin

The correct answer is: Lipase

In pancreatitis, lipase is the enzyme that is more specific for diagnosing the condition. Although both amylase and lipase are enzymes produced by the pancreas and can be elevated in cases of pancreatitis, lipase levels are particularly noted for their greater specificity and sensitivity in this context. Lipase levels typically rise within a few hours following the onset of pancreatitis and can remain elevated for a longer duration than amylase, making it a more reliable marker for diagnosing acute pancreatitis. Amylase, on the other hand, can be elevated in other conditions such as salivary gland disorders, renal failure, and intestinal obstruction, which reduces its specificity. Therefore, when evaluating a patient for pancreatitis, measuring lipase is preferred over amylase for a more accurate diagnosis. This understanding emphasizes the importance of choosing the appropriate enzyme in clinical settings to reach a correct diagnosis and initiate proper management of the condition.