Complete Blood Count (CBC): What You Need to Know

A complete blood count (CBC) is a common blood test that measures the different cells in your blood, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets, to give your health care team a broad picture of your overall health.

The amylase test measures the amount of amylase in your blood. Amylase is a digestive enzyme produced primarily by the pancreas and salivary glands. Its main function is to break down carbohydrates (starches) into simpler sugars that your body can absorb. This test helps doctors evaluate how well your pancreas and salivary glands are functioning.

This test is performed as part of a routine checkup, to help investigate symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, fever, or unusual bruising and bleeding, or to monitor an existing condition such as anemia, infection, or a blood disorder over time.

Your healthcare provider may order an amylase test if you have symptoms suggesting a pancreatic or salivary gland problem, such as severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, fever, or swelling of the salivary glands. It is commonly used to diagnose and monitor conditions like acute pancreatitis (sudden inflammation of the pancreas), chronic pancreatitis, pancreatic cancer, pancreatic duct obstruction, and salivary gland infections like mumps.

A trained professional will draw a small sample of blood from a vein in your arm, usually on the inside of your elbow, using a thin needle. The procedure takes only a few minutes, and you can typically return to your normal activities right away.

A healthcare professional will draw a small sample of blood from a vein in your arm using a needle. The blood sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis. You may be asked to fast (not eat or drink anything except water) for 8-12 hours before the test. Your healthcare provider will inform you if any specific preparation is needed.

Your results show whether your blood cell counts fall within the expected range. Values outside this range do not always mean a serious problem, so your provider will interpret them alongside your symptoms, medications, and medical history before discussing any next steps with you.

Normal amylase levels typically range from 23 to 85 units per liter (U/L), but reference ranges may vary between laboratories. Elevated amylase levels may indicate acute pancreatitis, chronic pancreatitis, pancreatic cancer or pseudocyst, gallbladder disease, kidney dysfunction, or salivary gland inflammation. Low amylase levels may be seen in pancreatic insufficiency, severe liver disease, or malnutrition. Your doctor will interpret your results in context with your symptoms and other test findings.