Which enzyme is most specific for pancreatitis?

• A. Lipase
• B. Amylase
• C. Trypsin
• D. Chymotrypsin

Answer: (A)

When pancreatitis is suspected, we look for a marker that most specifically reflects pancreatic injury. Amylase can rise with pancreatitis but it also comes from salivary glands and other conditions, so it’s less specific. Lipase is produced mainly by the pancreas and its rise in the blood more reliably indicates pancreatic inflammation. It also stays elevated longer, which helps detect pancreatitis even if the patient presents later. The other enzymes listed are pancreatic enzymes, but they don’t provide the same specificity and interpretive clarity for this condition as lipase does. So lipase is the best choice for indicating pancreatitis.