Amylase, Blood

The major sources of amylase are the pancreas and the salivary glands. The most common cause of elevation of serum amylase is inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis).

Amylase is one of the main enzymes needed to break down starches into sugar. It is mostly found in the mouth, where it is secreted by the salivary glands in order to begin the chemical process of digestion. However, it is also secreted into the small intestines by the pancreas. When there is damage to the salivary glands or the pancreas, this enzyme can escape into the bloodstream where it can be measured. Therefore, this test is useful for detecting and monitoring salivary gland and pancreatic damage and disease, for example, pancreatic abscess, pseudocyst or cancer. Additionally, measuring this enzyme is also a good marker to judging response to treatment if a disease is being treated.

This test is performed in following conditions such as:

• Loss of appetite
• Upper abdominal pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Malnutrition
• Fever
• Swellings on the sides of the mouth

Also Known As: AML