When Lipase (LIP) is ordered on a specimen, which factor could cause a false result?

• A. Lipemia
• B. Hyperbilirubinemia
• C. Hemolysis
• D. Delayed refrigeration

Answer: (C)

The factor being tested is how sample quality affects the lipase measurement. Lipase testing is usually done with a colorimetric or photometric assay that relies on detecting a color change or light absorption produced by the enzymatic reaction. When the sample is hemolyzed, free hemoglobin and cell debris from red blood cells interfere with the assay’s optical readout. Hemoglobin absorbs and scatters light at wavelengths used in many lipase tests, distorting the signal and producing an inaccurate reading—often not reflecting the true enzyme activity. Additionally, substances released from red cells can interact with assay reagents, further biasing the result. So, hemolysis is a common culprit for false lipase results.