Which lab value is typically increased within 48 hours of onset of acute pancreatitis?

Which lab value is typically increased within 48 hours of onset of acute pancreatitis?

• A. ALT
• B. Bilirubin
• C. Lipase
• D. Amylase

Answer: (C)

Lipase is the most specific and reliable marker for pancreatitis in the first days after onset. It rises within a few hours (roughly 4–8 hours), peaks around 24 hours, and stays elevated for a longer period, typically days to over a week. Amylase also increases early but is less specific and returns to normal faster (usually within 3–5 days). ALT and bilirubin reflect liver or biliary involvement rather than pancreatic injury, so they aren’t the typical markers for the pancreatitis-onset window. Thus, lipase is the best answer for an elevation within 48 hours.

Lipase is the most specific and reliable marker for pancreatitis in the first days after onset. It rises within a few hours (roughly 4–8 hours), peaks around 24 hours, and stays elevated for a longer period, typically days to over a week. Amylase also increases early but is less specific and returns to normal faster (usually within 3–5 days). ALT and bilirubin reflect liver or biliary involvement rather than pancreatic injury, so they aren’t the typical markers for the pancreatitis-onset window. Thus, lipase is the best answer for an elevation within 48 hours.