Which enzymes are elevated in pancreatitis?

Which enzymes are elevated in pancreatitis?

• A. Serum bilirubin and alkaline phosphatase.
• B. Serum lipase and amylase.
• C. Creatinine and BUN.
• D. Troponin and CK-MB.

Answer: (B)

The key concept is that pancreatitis causes a rise in digestive enzymes released by the pancreas, specifically lipase and amylase. When pancreatic tissue is inflamed, these enzymes spill into the bloodstream and become elevated. Amylase tends to rise within about 6–12 hours of onset and often returns to normal within 3–5 days, while lipase rises a bit later but remains elevated longer, making it more sensitive and specific for pancreatic disease. Because of that, the combination of elevated lipase and amylase is the hallmark of pancreatitis. Choices showing bilirubin and alkaline phosphatase point more toward biliary obstruction or liver dysfunction, not pancreatitis. Creatinine and BUN reflect renal function, and troponin with CK-MB indicate myocardial injury.

The key concept is that pancreatitis causes a rise in digestive enzymes released by the pancreas, specifically lipase and amylase. When pancreatic tissue is inflamed, these enzymes spill into the bloodstream and become elevated. Amylase tends to rise within about 6–12 hours of onset and often returns to normal within 3–5 days, while lipase rises a bit later but remains elevated longer, making it more sensitive and specific for pancreatic disease. Because of that, the combination of elevated lipase and amylase is the hallmark of pancreatitis.

Choices showing bilirubin and alkaline phosphatase point more toward biliary obstruction or liver dysfunction, not pancreatitis. Creatinine and BUN reflect renal function, and troponin with CK-MB indicate myocardial injury.