Serum Amylase Test

This enzyme is produced in the pancreas; hence its estimation yields information about the functioning of pancreas and also indicative of several pancreatic disorders-acute pancreatitis, importantly. It can also be used to diagnose chronic pancreatitis and other pancreatic disorders. 

Your doctor may recommend amylase enzymatic serum test for you if you show symptoms of a pancreatic disorder. The symptoms include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Severe pain in the abdomen
• Loss of appetite
• Recurring Fever

Amylase is one of several enzymes produced by the pancreas in order to facilitate digestion of carbohydrates. Amylase enzymatic serum test measures the amount of amylase in the blood or urine or sometimes in peritoneal fluid-fluid present in the abdomen.

The test is used in :
- Acute Inflammation Of Pancreas.
- Diagnose suspected cases of acute pancreatitis
- Monitor the effectiveness of treatment for pancreatic disease.
- To help diagnose or monitor treatment for other disorders that may affect amylase levels, such as salivary gland disorders and certain digestive conditions. 
- Monitor the pancreatic affection in cases of crohn's disease, coeliac disease and cystic fibrosis.  

The test measures the levels of amylase in the blood. 

This test requires a blood sample. A tourniquet (elastic) band is placed tightly on the upper arm. The patient is then asked to make a fist. This helps in the build-up of blood filling the veins. The skin is disinfected before needle insertion and the blood sample is collected in vacutainer. 

High levels are seen in various pancreatic as well as salivary gland disorders, intestinal blockage, peptic ulcer, appendicitis, viral hepatitis, burns and acute alcohol poisoning.
Low levels are seen in bone fracture, chronic heart failure, chronic pancreatitis, liver and kidney diseases