Pancreatic Amylase in Serum (24-Hour Collection)
This test measures the amount of amylase, an enzyme produced by the pancreas, in your blood serum over a 24-hour period. Amylase helps break down carbohydrates in the digestive system.
["This test helps assess pancreatic function and rule out conditions like pancreatitis or pancreatic tumors."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 111019-6
- Short code
- p-ANCA Msmt Ser
- Synonyms
- p-ANCA Msmt Ser
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Critical range
- 0.5 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
Why Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or unexplained weight loss. It may also be used to monitor conditions affecting the pancreas or digestive system, such as chronic pancreatitis or cystic fibrosis.
What Does the Test Involve?
You’ll collect a urine sample over a full 24-hour period, which is then tested for amylase levels. This helps capture the total amount of amylase excreted in your urine during that time.
You’ll need to collect all urine produced in a 24-hour period in a special container. Start and end the collection at the same time each day, and keep the sample refrigerated until it’s sent to the lab.
Avoiding Contaminants: Do not use toilet paper, tampons, or menstrual products in your urine collection. Also, avoid using any urine collection devices that may alter the sample.
There are no special preparations needed for this test. You may continue your normal activities, but ensure you’re drinking enough fluids to produce urine throughout the day.
If you’re pregnant, have kidney disease, or are taking certain medications, let your healthcare provider know before starting the collection.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated amylase levels in urine can indicate acute pancreatitis, where the pancreas becomes inflamed. Chronic pancreatitis or other pancreatic conditions may also show abnormal results. However, amylase can also be elevated in other conditions like kidney disease or certain infections, so results should be interpreted by a healthcare professional in the context of your full medical history.
Short name
None
Frequently asked questions
What causes elevated amylase levels in urine?
What are the normal ranges for this test?
It’s best to avoid alcohol before starting your urine collection, as it may affect your results. Consult your healthcare provider for specific guidance tailored to your situation.
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy