Serum amylase and lipase are both elevated in acute pancreatitis. Which statement CORRECTLY distinguishes lipase from amylase as a marker?
- A Amylase is more specific than lipase for acute pancreatitis
- B Lipase elevation is seen in parotitis, reducing its specificity
- C Lipase remains elevated longer than amylase, making it more useful when presentation is delayed beyond 24 hours ✓
- D Amylase stays elevated for 10–14 days, longer than lipase
Correct answer: C. Lipase remains elevated longer than amylase, making it more useful when presentation is delayed beyond 24 hours
Explanation
Serum amylase rises within 2–12 hours but normalises by 3–5 days; lipase peaks similarly but remains elevated for 7–14 days. When a patient presents late (>24–48 hours), lipase is the preferred marker because amylase may have already normalised. Amylase is less specific because it is produced by the salivary glands, intestine, and ovaries.
Reference: Harper's Illustrated Biochemistry, 32nd ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.