Which of the following can lead to an increase in lipase levels?

An increase in lipase levels is primarily associated with pancreatitis, a condition characterized by inflammation of the pancreas. Lipase is an enzyme that helps to digest fats; when the pancreas is inflamed or damaged, it releases more lipase into the bloodstream. This elevation is significant because it serves as a useful diagnostic marker for pancreatitis in veterinary medicine.

Other conditions or scenarios may influence lipase levels, but they either do not result in specific increases or are not as direct as pancreatitis. For example, while overeating might result in gastrointestinal issues, it does not specifically indicate pancreas-related problems or cause a marked increase in lipase on its own. Similarly, liver disease can affect enzyme levels, but it generally elevates other liver enzymes rather than lipase directly. Stress in an animal may cause various physiological responses, but it typically does not lead to the significant increase in lipase levels seen in cases of pancreatitis. Thus, pancreatitis stands out as the primary cause for elevated lipase levels in this context.