A 45-year-old alcoholic presents with severe epigastric pain. Serum amylase is 850 U/L and serum lipase is 1200 U/L. Which statement about these enzymes in acute pancreatitis is CORRECT?
- A Lipase is more specific for pancreatitis and remains elevated longer than amylase ✓
- B Serum amylase rises at 24 hours and remains elevated for 2–3 weeks
- C Amylase elevation correlates directly with severity of pancreatitis
- D Urinary amylase is less sensitive than serum amylase in diagnosis
Correct answer: A. Lipase is more specific for pancreatitis and remains elevated longer than amylase
Explanation
Serum lipase is more specific for acute pancreatitis (>95% specificity) because it is produced almost exclusively by the pancreas, whereas amylase is also produced by salivary glands, small intestine, and ovaries. Lipase peaks at 24–72 hours and remains elevated for 7–14 days, longer than amylase (3–5 days), making it more useful for late presentations. Amylase elevation does not correlate with severity.
Reference: Harper's Illustrated Biochemistry, 32nd ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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