What causes elevated amylase and lipase levels in case of pancreatitis?
Patient: I have chronic pancreatitis and have had for several years (I had my gall bladder removed in 2001 and CP diagnosed in 2003). My most recent blood test results show my triglycerides low (they have been steadily high in prior years) and cholesterol levels in a good range. My weight is down with the help of garcinia cambogia(?), but both my amylase and lipase are elevated ( I frequently have elevated amylase, but not very often lipase). My last ERCP showed minor pancreatitis, but the pain has continued. Is the garcinia a foolish thing to take with my pancreatitis history? Any other explanations for increased amylas/lipase? My family has bad heart history (I am 57), so the good cholesterol is good to see, but the sudden rise in both amylase and lipase is concerning (though very low triglycerides for me now . . . 800s 10 yrs ago, 400 s 7 years ago, 150-200 recent years, 71 now). I have been under the care of a pain specialist and am prescribed opiates for the pain, but I have lowered my dose about 33% over the past six months and hope to lower it as far as possible (eliminate if pain can be reasonably contained through healthy eating. Any thoughts besides see a pancreas specialist (which I do)? Doctor: Hi, I had gone through your question and understand your concerns.Amylase and lipase are enzymes. Enzymes are proteins produced by the body to do a particular job. The pancreas produces amylase to break down carbohydrates in food into simple sugars. Lipase is produced by the pancreas to digest fats into fatty acids. Sugars and fatty acids can then be absorbed by the small intestine. Some amylase and lipase can also be found in saliva and in the stomach, but most is made in the pancreas and released into the small intestine.Amylase and lipase are enzymes produced by the pancreas that help to digest food. If the pancreas is damaged, high levels of these enzymes can be detected in the bloodstream.Do not worry about the low triglycerides. They won't harm you.Stop taking Garcinia.I would suggest you to-     Drink loads of water-     Avoid oily,spicy food-     Have a diet rich in fibres-     I would start tablet Pantoprazole . Your doctor can guide on the exact dosage-      Get a CECT (contrast enhanced CT scan) done . This will help to look at the pancreas , the calcifications and ducts.Visit a gastro-enterologist. He/she can examine you and correlate clinically.Do not worry.Hope this answers your question. If you have additional questions or follow up questions then please do not hesitate in writing to us. I will be happy to answer your questions. Wishing you good health.