LAB TEST
Amylase - blood
Amylase is an enzyme that helps digest carbohydrates. It is made primarily in the pancreas and the glands that make saliva, and can be found at low levels in other parts of the body. When the pancreas is diseased or inflamed, it releases increased amounts of amylase into the blood. A test can be done to measure the level of this enzyme in your blood. Amylase may also be measured with a urine amylase test .
How the Test is Performed
A blood sample is taken from a vein.
How to Prepare for the Test
No special preparation is needed. However, you should avoid alcohol before the test. The health care provider may ask you to stop taking drugs that may affect the test. Do not stop taking any medicines without first talking to your provider. Drugs that can increase amylase measurements include: Asparaginase Aspirin…
How the Test will Feel
You may feel slight pain or a sting when the needle is inserted to draw blood. Afterward, there may be some throbbing.
Why the Test is Performed
This test is most often used to diagnose or monitor acute pancreatitis . It may also detect some digestive tract problems. The test may also be done for the following conditions: Chronic pancreatitis Pancreatic pseudocyst
Normal Results
The normal range is 40 to 140 units per liter (U/L) or 0.38 to 1.42 microkat/L (µkat/L). Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories. Some laboratories use different measurement methods. Talk to your provider about the meaning of your test results.
What Abnormal Results Mean
Increased blood amylase level may occur due to: Acute pancreatitis Cancer of the pancreas , ovaries, or lungs Cholecystitis Infection of the salivary glands (such as mumps ) or a blockage of the salivary gland duct Intestinal blockage Macroamylasemia Pancreatic or bile duct blockage Perforated ulcer Tubal pregnancy…
Risks
Slight risks from having blood drawn may include: Excessive bleeding Fainting or feeling lightheaded Hematoma (blood accumulating under the skin) Infection (a slight risk any time the skin is broken)
References
Crockett SD, Wani S, Gardner TB, Falck-Ytter Y, Barkun AN; American Gastroenterological Association Institute Clinical Guidelines Committee. American Gastroenterological Association Institute guideline on initial management of acute pancreatitis. Gastroenterology . 2018;154(4):1096-1101. PMID: 29409760…
This is a summary. Read the full article at www.ucsfbenioffchildrens.org (reviewed 28/02/2023).
This page is general information and is not medical advice. It does not replace a registered doctor, and it is not a prescription or a recommendation to use any medicine or test. Prices are listed prices and may change. Always follow the advice of your doctor or pharmacist.