Amylase (Serum or Plasma)

Why Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order an amylase test to diagnose or monitor conditions affecting the pancreas, such as pancreatitis, pancreatic cancer, or blockages. It can also help identify salivary gland disorders, like sialadenitis (inflammation of the salivary glands). Sometimes, it’s used to check for conditions like cystic fibrosis or to evaluate abdominal pain or unexplained nausea/vomiting.

What to Expect During the Test

For serum/plasma amylase, a blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. For urine amylase, you may be asked to collect a 24-hour urine sample. The test is quick and usually done in a lab setting. No special preparation is needed unless instructed otherwise.

Possible Causes of Abnormal Results

High amylase levels may indicate acute pancreatitis, salivary gland infections, or certain types of kidney disease. Low levels are less common but could suggest severe pancreatic damage, malnutrition, or certain metabolic disorders. Always discuss symptoms and results with your provider.

What the Results Mean

Results are interpreted by your healthcare provider based on your symptoms, medical history, and other test results. Elevated levels often prompt further evaluation, while normal levels do not rule out all causes of symptoms. Follow-up testing may be needed if initial results are abnormal.