Amylasepcfrserpl
A blood test that measures amylase enzyme levels to evaluate pancreatic function and diagnose conditions affecting the pancreas.
{"Amylase is an enzyme that helps digest carbohydrates, produced by the pancreas and salivary glands","This test helps diagnose pancreatitis, pancreatic cancer, and other pancreatic disorders","Abnormal results may indicate pancreatic inflammation, blockages, or kidney disease","The test requires a simple blood draw","Results are typically available within a few days"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 25312-0
- Short code
- Amylase P CFr SerPl
- Synonyms
- Amylase P CFr SerPl
- 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?
The amylase test measures the level of amylase in your blood. Amylase is a digestive enzyme produced mainly by the pancreas (pancreatic amylase) and salivary glands (salivary amylase). This enzyme helps break down carbohydrates in the food you eat. The test may measure either pancreatic amylase specifically or total amylase (both types combined).
Why is this test performed?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms suggesting a pancreatic problem, such as severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, or fever. It is commonly used to diagnose and monitor conditions like acute pancreatitis (sudden pancreatic inflammation), chronic pancreatitis, pancreatic cancer, pancreatic duct blockage, and sometimes to evaluate salivary gland function.
How is the test performed?
A healthcare professional will draw a small blood sample from a vein in your arm using a needle. The procedure only takes a few minutes and is generally well tolerated. You may experience slight bruising or soreness at the injection site, but this is usually temporary. Fasting (not eating for 8-12 hours) may be required before the test, so follow your doctor's instructions carefully.
Understanding your results
Normal amylase levels vary by laboratory, but typical ranges are 40-140 units per liter (U/L) for total amylase. Elevated levels may indicate acute pancreatitis, chronic pancreatitis, pancreatic cancer, gallstones, intestinal obstruction, or kidney disease. Low levels can sometimes occur in pancreatic insufficiency or advanced chronic pancreatitis. Your doctor will interpret your results based on your symptoms, medical history, and other test results.
Are there any risks?
The risks associated with this blood test are minimal. You may experience slight pain, bruising, or bleeding at the puncture site. In rare cases, fainting, infection, or excessive bleeding may occur. These complications are uncommon and usually resolve quickly.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to fast before the test?
How long does it take to get results?
Can medications affect my amylase levels?
What is the difference between pancreatic amylase and total amylase?
Is the test painful?
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