Amylase

Formal name: Amylase

Related tests: Lipase

The Test Sample

What is being tested?

This test measures the amount of amylase in the blood or urine. Amylase is one of several enzymes produced by the pancreas to help digest fats, proteins, and carbohydrates It is secreted through the pancreatic duct into the duodenum, where it helps break down dietary carbohydrates. Amylase is also produced by other organs, particularly the salivary glands.

Amylase is usually present in the blood and urine in small quantities. When cells in the pancreas are injured (as in pancreatitis) or the pancreatic duct is blocked (by a gallstone or rarely by a pancreatic tumor), increased amounts of amylase find their way into the bloodstream, increasing concentrations in the blood and the urine, which is the excretion path for amylase from the blood.

How is the sample collected for testing?

A blood sample is taken by needle from a vein in the arm. Sometimes a 24-hour urine sample is collected.

NOTE: If undergoing medical tests makes you or someone you care for anxious, embarrassed, or even difficult to manage, you might consider reading one or more of the following articles: Coping with Test Pain, Discomfort, and Anxiety, Tips on Blood Testing, Tips to Help Children through Their Medical Tests, and Tips to Help the Elderly through Their Medical Tests.

Another article, Follow That Sample, provides a glimpse at the collection and processing of a blood sample and throat culture.

Is any test preparation needed to ensure the quality of the sample?

No test preparation is needed.