Amylase is a digestive enzyme produced by the pancreas and salivary gland. Elevated amylase levels can be indicative of pancreatitis. The most common cause of elevation of serum amylase is inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis). In acute pancreatitis, serum amylase begins to rise within 6-24 hours, remains elevated for a few days and returns to normal in 3-7 days. Other causes of elevated serum amylase are inflammation of salivary glands (mumps), biliary tract disease and bowel obstruction. Elevated serum amylase can also be seen with drugs (e.g., morphine) which constrict the pancreatic duct sphincter preventing excretion of amylase into the intestine.
A significant deviation from the normal range may require further evaluation by your physician.
Amylase, Serum
No fasting required.
Estimated turnaround for results is 3 business days. If confirmation testing is required, the estimated time may be extended.
Amylase is a digestive enzyme produced by the pancreas and salivary gland. Elevated amylase levels can be indicative of pancreatitis. A significant deviation from the normal range may require further evaluation by your physician.
Amylase, Serum
No fasting required.
Estimated turnaround for results is 3 business days. If confirmation testing is required, the estimated time may be extended.