What is the primary diagnostic test for acute pancreatitis?

• A. Elevation of serum amylase or lipase
• B. Abdominal ultrasound alone
• C. Hypocalcemia
• D. Elevated alkaline phosphatase

Answer: (A)

Elevation of serum pancreatic enzymes is the main way we confirm acute pancreatitis. Measuring amylase or lipase in the blood reflects pancreatic injury, and when the patient has compatible abdominal pain, this enzyme elevation supports the diagnosis. Lipase is preferred because it’s more specific to the pancreas and stays elevated longer, making it more reliable than amylase. Abdominal ultrasound can help identify gallstones or complications but isn’t by itself diagnostic for pancreatitis. Hypocalcemia and elevated alkaline phosphatase may occur in pancreatitis or biliary disease, but they are not diagnostic tests for pancreatitis.