What It Is

Amylase is an enzyme produced mainly by the salivary glands and the pancreas (an organ located behind the stomach) that helps breaks down the carbohydrates and starches we eat into simple sugars. This is important because simple sugars are ultimately converted to glucose, which fuels all of our body's processes. An amylase test measures the amount of amylase in the blood.

Small amounts of amylase are normally present in the blood. However, increased amounts may be released into the blood when the pancreas is injured, inflamed, or blocked.

Why It's Done

An amylase test may be ordered if a doctor suspects a pancreatic problem, including pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), gallstones, or a blockage of the duct that carries amylase and other substances from the pancreas to the small intestine. Symptoms of a pancreatic disorder may include abdominal pain, fever, loss of appetite, or nausea.

The amylase test also may be used to help monitor patients with cystic fibrosis (CF), a genetic condition in which thick mucus blocks passages in the lungs and digestive system, causing repeated lung infections and problems with absorbing nutrients. In CF, blood levels of amylase may rise when mucus blocks the pancreatic ducts from carrying the enzymes that the small intestine needs to digest food properly.

Preparation

No special preparations are needed for this test. However, certain drugs might alter the test results, so tell your doctor about any medications your child is taking.

On the day of the test, having your child wear a short-sleeve shirt can make things faster for the technician who will be drawing the blood.