Understanding Your Medical Test: What It Is, How It Is Performed, and Why It Matters
This test measures the level of amylase enzyme in duodenal fluid to assess pancreatic exocrine function.
{"Amylase is a digestive enzyme produced by the pancreas that breaks down carbohydrates","This test helps diagnose pancreatic disorders such as pancreatitis, pancreatic cancer, or pancreatic insufficiency","Abnormally low levels may indicate pancreatic exocrine dysfunction","The test is performed on fluid collected from the duodenum (the first part of the small intestine)","Results are interpreted together with clinical symptoms and other diagnostic tests"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 1794-7
- Short code
- Amylase Duod fl-cCnc
- Synonyms
- Amylase Duod fl-cCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Critical range
- — – 500 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test and what does it check for?
The amylase test measures the amount of amylase enzyme in duodenal fluid. Amylase is primarily produced by the pancreas and helps break down carbohydrates (starches) into sugars in the digestive system. When pancreatic cells are damaged or blocked, amylase levels in the duodenal fluid may be altered, providing important information about pancreatic function.
How is this test performed, and what can I expect during the procedure?
Duodenal fluid is collected during an endoscopic procedure called an upper endoscopy (EGD). A thin, flexible tube with a camera (endoscope) is passed through the mouth and stomach into the duodenum. Fluid is then aspirated and sent to the laboratory for analysis. The procedure is typically performed by a gastroenterologist and may take 15-30 minutes.
Why is this test important for my diagnosis and treatment plan?
This test is important for evaluating the pancreas' ability to produce digestive enzymes. It can help identify conditions that affect pancreatic exocrine function, guide treatment decisions, and assess the severity of pancreatic diseases. The test is particularly useful when combined with other pancreatic function tests.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to fast before this test?
Is the procedure painful?
How long does it take to get results?
What conditions can this test detect?
Sources
- 1
- 2
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy