Amylase is a digestive enzyme produced mainly by the pancreas and salivary glands.

It helps break down carbohydrates into simple sugars.

Elevated serum amylase levels are commonly associated with pancreatic inflammation or injury.

Clinical uses include:

Diagnosing acute pancreatitis (amylase rises quickly but returns to normal faster than lipase).

Monitoring chronic pancreatitis and other pancreatic diseases.

Detecting salivary gland disorders (e.g., mumps, obstruction).

Supporting evaluation of abdominal pain of unclear origin.

The test is performed using a blood sample.

Analyte: Serum amylase enzyme activity.

Normal Range: ~30 – 110 U/L (varies by lab).

Abnormal Findings:

High amylase: Suggests acute pancreatitis, pancreatic cancer, gallstones, bowel obstruction, perforated ulcer, or salivary gland disease.

Low amylase: May occur in chronic pancreatic insufficiency or liver disease.

Clinical Use:

Provides a rapid marker for pancreatic injury.

Helps differentiate pancreatic vs. non-pancreatic causes of abdominal pain.

Often interpreted alongside serum lipase for greater diagnostic accuracy.