Amylase
About Test
The Amylase test measures the level of amylase, an enzyme produced primarily by the pancreas and salivary glands, in the blood. Amylase is crucial for the digestive process, as it helps break down carbohydrates into simpler sugars that the body can absorb. This test is often used to diagnose and monitor conditions affecting the pancreas, such as acute pancreatitis, chronic pancreatitis, and pancreatic cancer.
Elevated levels of amylase can indicate inflammation or damage to the pancreas, while low levels may be associated with pancreatic insufficiency or certain genetic conditions. The test is commonly performed alongside other diagnostic tests, such as lipase, to provide a comprehensive assessment of pancreatic function. Regular monitoring of amylase levels helps healthcare providers diagnose pancreatic disorders, guide treatment, and track the effectiveness of interventions, ensuring optimal management of digestive health.
Sample Requirements
Gold SST Tube
Stability
Serum: 7 days 20-25°C, 1 month 2-8°C
Turnaround Time
4 hours
Assay Interferences
Recovery within ± 10 %
Lipemia: No significant interference up to an L index of 2200. There is poor correlation between the L index (corresponds to turbidity) and triglycerides concentration.
Icterus: No significant interference up to an I index of 52 for conjugated bilirubin and 76 for unconjugated bilirubin (approximate conjugated bilirubin concentration: 889 µmol/L or 52 mg/dL; approximate unconjugated bilirubin concentration: 1300 µmol/L or 76 mg/dL).
Haemolysis: No significant interference up to an H index of 260 (approximate hemoglobin concentration: 161 µmol/L or 260 mg/dL)
Drugs: No interference was found at therapeutic concentrations using common drug panels. Exceptions: Icodextrin-based drugs may cause artificially low amylase results.
Other: Anticoagulants: Interference was found with citrate and fluoride.
Reference Range (U/L):
28.0 – 118.0
Critical Value:
Not applicable