Complete Blood Count (CBC) Test
A blood test that measures the level of amylase, an enzyme important for digestion, to help diagnose pancreatic disorders.
{"Amylase is an enzyme produced by the pancreas and salivary glands that helps break down carbohydrates","This test is primarily used to diagnose and monitor pancreatic conditions such as pancreatitis","Abnormal amylase levels may indicate pancreatic inflammation, blockage, or other digestive disorders","The test requires a simple blood draw","Results are typically available within a few days"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 56782-6
- Short code
- Amylase S4 CFr SerPl
- Synonyms
- Amylase S4 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 a complete blood count (CBC) test?
An amylase blood test measures the amount of amylase enzyme in your blood. Amylase is primarily produced by the pancreas (an organ that helps with digestion) and salivary glands. This enzyme plays a key role in breaking down carbohydrates in the food you eat into sugar for energy.
Why might my doctor order a complete blood count (CBC) test?
Your healthcare provider may order an amylase test to: evaluate pancreatic function, diagnose pancreatic diseases such as pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), monitor ongoing pancreatic conditions, investigate cause of abdominal pain, or check for blockages or other issues with the pancreas or digestive system.
How is a complete blood count (CBC) 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. You may feel a brief pinch or sting when the needle is inserted. The blood sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.
How do I prepare for a complete blood count (CBC) test?
Follow your healthcare provider's instructions carefully. You may need to fast (not eat or drink anything except water) for 8-12 hours before the test. Certain medications can affect amylase levels, so inform your doctor about all medications, supplements, or herbal remedies you are taking. Avoid alcohol before the test as it can affect pancreatic function.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Frequently asked questions
What do high amylase levels mean?
What do low amylase levels mean?
How long does it take to get results?
Is the test painful?
Are there any risks with this test?
Sources
- 1MedlinePlus - AmylaseSource
- 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