Pancreatic Function

The Pancreatic Function panel is a focused blood investigation designed to assess the health and function of your pancreas, a vital organ responsible for producing digestive enzymes and regulating blood sugar. This test is suitable for anyone experiencing symptoms such as persistent abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, nausea, or fatty stools, as well as for individuals with known risk factors for pancreatic conditions including gallstones, heavy alcohol use, or a family history of pancreatic disease. It may also be used to monitor existing pancreatic conditions or to investigate suspected acute or chronic pancreatitis.

The panel uses standard enzymatic and spectrophotometric assays to measure three key markers:

Pancreatic Enzymes
- Amylase (AMY): an enzyme produced primarily by the pancreas and salivary glands that helps break down carbohydrates. Elevated levels can indicate pancreatic inflammation or blockage.
- Lipase (LPS): an enzyme produced mainly by the pancreas that breaks down fats. It is often considered a more specific marker of pancreatic injury than amylase.

Blood Sugar Regulation
- Glucose (GLU): a measure of the sugar level in your blood. The pancreas produces insulin to regulate glucose, so abnormal levels can reflect pancreatic endocrine dysfunction.

Why it matters
The pancreas plays a dual role in digestion and blood sugar control, so early detection of dysfunction is crucial. This panel provides a rapid, reliable snapshot of pancreatic enzyme activity and glucose regulation, helping you and your doctor identify inflammation, obstruction, or endocrine impairment before complications develop. Whether you are investigating symptoms or monitoring a known condition, these results offer clear, actionable insight into your pancreatic health.