Which term refers to pancreatic enzymes used in diagnosing pancreatitis?

• A. A-line
• B. Amylase/Lipase
• C. ABG
• D. VBG

Answer: (B)

Pancreatic enzymes detected in the blood are used to diagnose pancreatitis because inflammation of the pancreas causes these enzymes to leak into circulation. Amylase and lipase are produced by the pancreas to digest carbohydrates and fats, respectively, and when the pancreas is injured their levels rise in the blood. Lipase is more specific to the pancreas and tends to stay elevated longer, so it’s particularly useful for confirming pancreatitis; amylase often rises earlier but returns to normal more quickly. Together, elevated amylase or lipase (often more than three times the upper limit of normal) support the diagnosis in the right clinical setting.

The other options aren’t related to pancreatic enzymes or pancreatitis: an A-line is an arterial line for blood pressure monitoring, while arterial or venous blood gas tests are ABG and VBG, which measure acid-base status rather than enzyme levels.