Serum lipase is preferred over serum amylase for the diagnosis of acute pancreatitis because:

• A Lipase rises earlier (within 1 hour) and returns to normal faster
• B Lipase is not influenced by renal function whereas amylase is freely filtered
• C Lipase is exclusively secreted by the pancreas unlike amylase
• D Lipase has greater sensitivity and remains elevated for a longer window (up to 14 days) ✓

Explanation

Lipase has sensitivity of approximately 85–100% versus 70–80% for amylase in acute pancreatitis, and stays elevated for 8–14 days compared with amylase's 3–5 days, improving late-presenting case detection. Amylase does rise earlier (within 2–12 hours). Lipase is also cleared renally and can be falsely elevated in renal failure. Salivary glands, intestine, and liver also produce amylase (P-type isoamylase from pancreas is specific but not routinely separated).

Reference: Harper's Illustrated Biochemistry, 32nd ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.