Amylase Test Most Popular

The Amylase Test test contains 1 test with 1 biomarker .

Brief Description: The Amylase test is a laboratory test that measures the level of amylase enzyme in the blood. Amylase is an enzyme primarily produced by the pancreas and salivary glands. It plays a crucial role in the digestion of carbohydrates. The test helps evaluate the activity of amylase in the body and can provide valuable information about pancreatic and digestive health.

Also Known As: Amy Test

Testing Method: Spectrophotometry

Collection Method: Blood Draw 
Specimen: 1 mL Serum 

Test Preparation: No preparation required

When is an Amylase test ordered?

An Amylase test may be ordered in the following situations:

1. Evaluation of Pancreatic Function: The test is commonly ordered to assess pancreatic function. Amylase is produced by the pancreas and released into the bloodstream. An Amylase test helps detect abnormalities in pancreatic enzyme production and can aid in the diagnosis of pancreatic disorders, such as pancreatitis.

2. Diagnosis of Abdominal Pain: The test may be ordered when a patient presents with severe abdominal pain, especially in the upper abdomen. Elevated levels of amylase in the blood can indicate acute pancreatitis, a condition characterized by inflammation of the pancreas.

3. Monitoring Pancreatic Disorders: For individuals with known pancreatic disorders, such as chronic pancreatitis or pancreatic cancer, regular Amylase testing may be performed to monitor disease progression and treatment effectiveness.

What does an Amylase blood test check for?

Amylase is one of numerous pancreatic enzymes that aid in carbohydrate digestion. This test detects the presence of amylase in the blood.

Amylase is produced from the pancreas into the duodenum, the first region of the small intestine, where it aids in the digestion of carbohydrates. Other organs, including the salivary glands, generate it as well.

Amylase is normally found in modest amounts in the blood and urine. Increased levels of amylase are released into the blood when pancreatic cells are harmed, as in pancreatitis, or when the pancreatic duct is obstructed by a gallstone or, in rare situations, a pancreatic tumor. This raises amylase levels in the blood.

Lab tests often ordered with an Amylase test:

When an Amylase test is ordered, it's typically part of a broader evaluation of pancreatic function and gastrointestinal health. Here are some tests commonly ordered alongside it:

1. Lipase:

   • Purpose: Lipase is another enzyme produced by the pancreas that helps in digesting fats.
   • Why Is It Ordered: To confirm or rule out pancreatitis, as lipase levels also rise in acute pancreatitis, often more specifically than amylase.

2. Complete Blood Count (CBC):

   • Purpose: Provides a broad picture of overall health, including red and white blood cells and platelets.
   • Why Is It Ordered: To detect signs of infection or inflammation, which can accompany pancreatitis or other abdominal disorders.

3. Liver Function Tests:

   • Purpose: To assess liver health.
   • Why Is It Ordered: Pancreatic problems can sometimes affect the liver, or similar symptoms can be caused by liver disorders.

4. Calcium:

   • Purpose: To measure the level of calcium in the blood.
   • Why Is It Ordered: Hypocalcemia (low calcium levels) can occur in acute pancreatitis.

5. Triglycerides:

   • Purpose: To measure the level of triglycerides in the blood.
   • Why Is It Ordered: High triglyceride levels can be a risk factor for pancreatitis.

6. Blood Glucose:

   • Purpose: To measure blood sugar levels.
   • Why Is It Ordered: Pancreatic disorders, especially chronic pancreatitis, can affect the production of insulin, leading to changes in blood glucose levels.

7. Kidney Function Test:

   • Purpose: To evaluate kidney function.
   • Why Is It Ordered: To assess overall health and the potential impact of pancreatic disorders on kidney function.

These tests, when ordered alongside an Amylase test, provide a comprehensive view of pancreatic health, potential causes of pancreatic inflammation or damage, and overall abdominal health. They are essential for diagnosing, monitoring, and managing conditions related to the pancreas, including acute and chronic pancreatitis. The specific combination of tests will depend on the individual's symptoms, medical history, and initial test results.

Conditions where an Amylase test is recommended:

An Amylase test may be required in the following conditions or diseases:

1. Pancreatitis: Acute or chronic pancreatitis is a common condition requiring an Amylase test. Elevated levels of amylase in the blood are often seen in individuals with pancreatic inflammation.

2. Pancreatic Cancer: Amylase levels may be elevated in pancreatic cancer, although it is not a specific diagnostic marker. An Amylase test can be part of the diagnostic workup for pancreatic cancer.

3. Gallstones: Gallstones can cause blockage of the pancreatic duct, leading to increased amylase levels. In such cases, an Amylase test can help in the diagnosis.

How does my healthcare provider use an Amylase test?

Health care providers use the results of an Amylase test to:

1. Diagnose Pancreatic Disorders: Elevated levels of amylase in the blood can indicate acute or chronic pancreatitis. The test results, along with other clinical information and imaging studies, aid in the diagnosis and management of pancreatic disorders.

2. Monitor Treatment Response: For individuals with known pancreatic conditions, regular Amylase testing helps monitor treatment effectiveness and disease progression.

By analyzing the Amylase test results alongside other clinical data, health care providers can evaluate pancreatic function, diagnose pancreatic disorders, and develop appropriate treatment plans for their patients.

What do my Amylase test results mean?

A high level of amylase in the blood may suggest the presence of a pancreas problem.

Amylase levels in the blood often rise to 4 to 6 times higher than the highest reference value, also known as the upper limit of normal, in acute pancreatitis. The increase happens within 4 to 8 hours following a pancreas damage and usually lasts until the cause is effectively treated. In a few days, the amylase levels will return to normal.

Amylase levels in chronic pancreatitis are initially fairly increased, although they frequently decline over time as the pancreas deteriorates. Returning to normal levels may not signal that the source of damage has been rectified in this scenario. The size of the amylase rise does not indicate the severity of pancreatic illness.

Amylase levels may also be elevated in persons who have pancreatic duct obstruction or pancreatic cancer.

Urine amylase levels rise in lockstep with blood amylase levels and remain elevated for several days after blood levels have returned to normal.

A high amount of amylase in the peritoneal fluid can indicate acute pancreatitis, but it can also indicate other abdominal problems including a clogged intestine or poor blood supply to the intestines.

A low amylase level in the blood and urine of a person with pancreatitis symptoms could indicate that the amylase-producing cells in the pancreas have been permanently damaged. Reduced levels can also be caused by renal illness or pregnancy toxemia.

Increased blood amylase levels along with normal to low urine amylase levels could indicate the presence of a macroamylase, a harmless compound of amylase and other proteins that builds up in the bloodstream.

Most Common Questions About the Amylase test:

Understanding the Amylase Test and Its Purpose

What is the Amylase test?

The Amylase test is a blood test that measures the level of amylase, an enzyme that helps break down carbohydrates in your body. It's mainly produced in the pancreas and salivary glands.

Why is the Amylase test performed?

The Amylase test is primarily used to diagnose or monitor pancreatic diseases, including acute pancreatitis and chronic pancreatitis. It can also be used to investigate other conditions related to the digestive system, such as salivary gland infections or cystic fibrosis.

Who should get an Amylase test?

People experiencing symptoms that could be linked to a pancreatic disorder might need an Amylase test. These symptoms can include severe abdominal pain, fever, loss of appetite, nausea, and vomiting.

Interpreting Test Results and Abnormal Findings

What do the results of an Amylase test mean?

Results of an Amylase test will show whether amylase levels are within the normal range, or if they are higher or lower than normal. High levels often suggest a problem with the pancreas or salivary glands, while low levels can be seen in certain types of pancreatic disease or other conditions.

What could cause elevated levels of amylase?

Elevated levels of amylase can be seen in conditions such as acute pancreatitis, chronic pancreatitis, blocked bile ducts, mumps, or salivary gland obstruction.

What could cause low levels of amylase?

Low levels of amylase can occur with permanent damage to the pancreas due to chronic pancreatitis, cystic fibrosis, or potentially with liver disease.

Understanding the Implications and Health Impact

What role does amylase play in the body?

Amylase is an enzyme that helps your body digest carbohydrates. It's produced in the pancreas and the salivary glands. When you eat, amylase breaks down the carbohydrates in your food so your body can use it for energy.

What health conditions can be associated with abnormal amylase levels?

Abnormal amylase levels can be associated with several conditions, most notably acute pancreatitis, chronic pancreatitis, and blocked ducts in the pancreas. Other conditions can include salivary gland disorders, like mumps, or severe kidney disease.

Risk Factors, Prevention, and Treatment

Are there any risk factors for developing abnormal amylase levels?

Risk factors for developing abnormal amylase levels can include heavy alcohol use, gallstones, a family history of pancreatic disease, smoking, and certain medications.

How can I lower my risk of developing pancreatic disease?

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help lower your risk of developing pancreatic disease. This includes limiting alcohol consumption, avoiding smoking, eating a balanced diet, and getting regular exercise.

What treatment options are available if my amylase levels are abnormal?

Treatment options depend on the underlying cause of the abnormal amylase levels. This could include lifestyle modifications, medications, surgery, or other interventions depending on the condition.

How does the Amylase test relate to a Lipase test?

The Amylase test and Lipase test are often done together as they can both help diagnose or monitor conditions related to the pancreas. While amylase levels can increase due to several different conditions, lipase is more specific to the pancreas, making it a more accurate indicator of pancreatic damage.

How often should I get an Amylase test?

The frequency of Amylase testing depends on your individual circumstances, such as any symptoms you might have, and any underlying health conditions. Your healthcare provider will recommend how often you should be tested.

Can certain foods or medications affect the results of an Amylase test?

Yes, certain foods or medications can potentially affect the results of an Amylase test. These can include alcohol, aspirin, birth control pills, and some medications for blood pressure or psychiatric conditions.

Can the Amylase test help diagnose other conditions aside from pancreatic disease?

Yes, while the Amylase test is often used to diagnose and monitor pancreatic disease, it can also be used to investigate other conditions related to the digestive system, such as mumps or a blockage in the salivary glands.

We advise having your results reviewed by a licensed medical healthcare professional for proper interpretation of your results.