Amylasetmurcrate
A urine test that measures the level of amylase, an enzyme that helps digest carbohydrates, to evaluate pancreatic function.
{"Measures amylase enzyme levels in urine to assess pancreatic health","Helps diagnose conditions like pancreatitis and pancreatic obstruction","Collecting a clean urine sample is simple and non-invasive","Results are often compared with blood amylase for better diagnosis","Elevated levels may indicate pancreatic or kidney issues"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 38193-9
- Short code
- Amylase ?Tm Ur-cRate
- Synonyms
- Amylase ?Tm Ur-cRate
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- Sterile urine container
- Units
- N/A
- Critical range
- — – 500 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 10 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
The urine amylase test measures the amount of amylase in your urine. Amylase is an enzyme produced primarily by the pancreas and salivary glands that helps break down carbohydrates and starches into sugar. When the pancreas is inflamed or damaged, amylase levels increase in the blood and urine.
Why is this test performed?
This test is primarily used to evaluate pancreatic function and diagnose pancreatic disorders. It helps healthcare providers identify conditions such as acute pancreatitis, chronic pancreatitis, pancreatic obstruction, or pancreatic cancer. The test may also be used to monitor treatment effectiveness for pancreatic conditions.
How is the test performed?
A urine sample is collected using a clean-catch method. You will be given a sterile container to collect a mid-stream urine sample. For accurate results, it's important to follow the collection instructions carefully. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.
What do the results mean?
Elevated urine amylase levels may indicate acute pancreatitis, chronic pancreatitis, pancreatic duct obstruction, or pancreatic cancer. Moderately elevated levels can also occur with kidney disease or salivary gland infections. Normal levels vary by laboratory, so your doctor will interpret your results in context with your symptoms and other test results.
Are there any risks?
This test carries minimal risks, similar to routine urine tests. You may experience minor discomfort during sample collection. There are no significant side effects from the test itself.
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?
How long does it take to get results?
Can medications affect my results?
What happens if my results are abnormal?
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