Amylase Test

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KEY POINTS

• The amylase test measures the amount of an enzyme called amylase in your blood. Usually the test is done to check for problems with your pancreas.
• A small amount of blood is taken from a vein in your arm with a needle. The blood is collected in tubes and sent to a lab.
• Talk to your healthcare provider about what the test results mean and ask any questions you have.

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What is an amylase test?

The amylase test is a blood test. It measures the amount of an enzyme called amylase in your blood. Enzymes are chemicals that help the cells of your body work.

Amylase can also be measured with a urine test.

Amylase is made by the pancreas (an organ in your upper belly behind your stomach) and by the glands in your mouth that make saliva. Amylase helps you digest starchy carbohydrates, such as bread, corn, and potatoes.

Why is it done?

Usually the test is done to check for problems with your pancreas. For example, it may be done to check for pancreatitis, which is swelling and irritation of the pancreas. The pancreas makes digestive enzymes and the hormones insulin and glucagon. The digestive enzymes flow into the small intestine to help your body break down food. Insulin goes into the blood to control the level of glucose (sugar) in your blood.

This test may also be done if the glands in your mouth are swollen or tender. It can check for infection or inflammation.

How do I prepare for this test?

You may need to avoid taking certain medicines before the test because they might affect the test result. Make sure your healthcare provider knows about any medicines, herbs, or supplements that you are taking. Ask your provider before stopping any of your regular medicines.

Talk to your provider if you have any questions about the test.

How is the test done?

Having this test will take just a few minutes. A small amount of blood is taken from a vein in your arm with a needle. The blood is collected in tubes and sent to a lab.

Ask your healthcare provider when and how you will get the result of your test.

What does the test result mean?

A high level of amylase may be caused by:

• Pancreatitis
• Gallstones
• An ulcer that has made a hole in the stomach and is irritating the pancreas
• Infection or swelling and irritation (inflammation) of the glands in your mouth, for example, mumps
• A medicine you have taken
• Cancer of the pancreas, ovaries, or lungs
• A tubal (ectopic) pregnancy

A low level of amylase may be caused by:

• Cancer of the pancreas or other pancreas disease
• Kidney disease
• Problems in pregnancy such as preeclampsia

What if my test result is not normal?

Test results are only one part of a larger picture that takes into account your medical history and current health. Sometimes a test needs to be repeated to check the first result. Talk to your healthcare provider about your result and ask questions such as:

• If you need more tests
• What kind of treatment you might need
• What lifestyle, diet, or other changes you might need to make