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Description

The clinical test for amylase acquired from a patient's serum is a laboratory test used to measure the level of amylase in the blood. Amylase is an enzyme produced by the pancreas and salivary glands that helps to break down carbohydrates.

The method for obtaining amylase from a patient's serum involves collecting a sample of the patient's blood. The sample is then centrifuged to separate the serum from the other components of the blood. The serum is then tested for amylase levels using a spectrophotometer or an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The results of the test are then used to diagnose and monitor conditions such as pancreatitis, cystic fibrosis, and mumps.

Synonyms

• alpha amylase

Other Sample Sources for This Test

• duodenal contents
• esophageal fluid
• gastric contents
• pancreatic fluid
• peritoneal fluid
• plasma
• pleural fluid
• saliva
• urine

Some Diseases Associated with an Abnormal Amylase

• Type 2 diabetes mellitus
• normal pregnancy
• urinary tract disorder
• ovarian cyst
• allergic rhinitis
• atrial fibrillation
• malignant female breast neoplasm
• acute pancreatitis
• neurotic depression
• benign prostatic hypertrophy
• chronic kidney disease
• biliary disorder
• gallbladder disorder
• nonmedicinal toxicity
• AIDS
• drug side effect

Detailed Laboratory Testing Information (use the custom search buttons below to find details on these topics)

All of the following must be considered when interpreting clinical findings and are too extensive to be covered on this site: