What is more specifc for pancreatic cancer...amylase or lipase?

[blackberry13]

First Aid says lipase, but I'm pretty sure its amylase...this might be on the exam and I am taking it soon so can someone please let me know? Thank you!

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[lord_jeebus]

I say lipase, but I don't know if the evidence is strong enough for Step I to ask you about that.

 

[SoCuteMD]

lipase...amylase is also found in the salivary glands.

 

[UCLAstudent]

Lipase would be more specific, but don't think that either is used as a marker for pancreatic cancer --- pancreatitis, yes. CA 19-9 can be used to monitor pancreatic tumor growth, but it's not specific enough to make an initial diagnosis.

 

[lord_jeebus]

Lipase would be more specific, but don't think that either is used as a marker for pancreatic cancer

Nice catch.

Dual phase helical CT is the most sensitive for pancreatic ca

U/s guided FNA biopsy is the most specific

They won't ask you that.

In a patient with high pretest probability of pancreatic ca, I think CA 19-9 is specific enough for boards purposes.