ROSH Gastrointestinal Practice Exam

Which laboratory value is important to monitor in cases of suspected acute pancreatitis related to alcohol consumption?

1. Amylase levels

2. Blood glucose

3. LDH levels

4. Albumin levels

The correct answer is: LDH levels

In cases of suspected acute pancreatitis, especially when related to alcohol consumption, monitoring amylase levels is particularly important. Amylase is an enzyme produced by the pancreas and salivary glands that helps in the digestion of carbohydrates. In acute pancreatitis, especially when it is caused by factors such as alcohol intake, there is a significant elevation of serum amylase due to pancreatic damage or inflammation. While LDH might suggest tissue damage in general, it is not specific enough to acute pancreatitis and would not be the primary focus during an acute phase. Blood glucose levels are important to monitor due to the pancreas's role in glucose metabolism, but they do not directly indicate the status of pancreatitis. Similarly, albumin levels provide insights into nutritional status and liver function but are not specific indicators of pancreatic inflammation or damage. Thus, evaluating amylase levels gives a more definitive picture for diagnosing and managing acute pancreatitis in the context of alcohol consumption, making it a crucial laboratory value to monitor.