Question

A female presenting with abdominal pain, distension, organ failure in last 24 hours. CT scan shows pancreas which is bulky & there is fluid density lesion in the pancreas. Which of the following will be increased.

• A. AST
• B. Lipase
• C. Creatine Kinase
• D. Blood Urea Nitrogen

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

The patient presents with symptoms and imaging findings suggestive of acute pancreatitis. The key observations from the CT scan include a bulky pancreas and a fluid density lesion, which are indicative of inflammation and possible pseudocyst formation within the pancreas.

Acute Pancreatitis: This condition is characterized by the sudden inflammation of the pancreas. It typically presents with abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and systemic symptoms such as organ failure in severe cases.

Diagnostic Markers: In the context of acute pancreatitis, specific blood markers are elevated. These include:

• Amylase: An enzyme produced in the pancreas and salivary glands that breaks down starches.
• Lipase: An enzyme specifically related to the pancreas, responsible for breaking down fats.

In cases of acute pancreatitis, serum lipase is usually more sensitive and specific than amylase and thus is the preferred enzyme for diagnosis.

Explanation: Given the options provided:

• AST: Typically associated with liver damage, not specific to pancreatitis.
• Lipase: Most directly associated with pancreatic inflammation, levels will be elevated.
• Creatine Kinase: Typically associated with muscle damage, not specific to pancreatic conditions.
• Blood Urea Nitrogen: Indicates kidney function, not specific to pancreatic issues.

Based on the clinical presentation and the fact that the pancreas is involved, Lipase will be elevated in this scenario.