Amylase

Why this test?

To diagnose acute or chronic pancreatitis and other diseases involving the pancreas in the pathological process (together with the lipase test).

To monitor the treatment of cancer affecting the pancreas.

To make sure that the pancreatic duct is not compromised after gallstones are removed.

In what cases is it prescribed?

When the patient has signs of pancreatic pathology: intense pain in the abdomen and back ("girdle pain"), fever, loss of appetite, vomiting.

When monitoring the condition of a patient with pancreatic disease and monitoring the effectiveness of his treatment.

Test information

Amylase is one of several enzymes that are produced in the pancreas and are part of pancreatic juice. Lipase breaks down fats, protease breaks down proteins, and amylase breaks down carbohydrates. From the pancreas, pancreatic juice, which contains amylase, enters the duodenum through the pancreatic duct, where it helps digest food.

Normally, only a small amount of amylase circulates in the bloodstream (due to the regeneration of cells of the pancreas and salivary glands) and enters the urine. If there is damage to the pancreas, as in pancreatitis, or if the pancreatic duct is blocked by a stone or tumor, amylase begins to enter the bloodstream in large amounts and then into the urine. Small amounts of amylase are produced in the ovaries, intestines, bronchi and skeletal muscles.