Content :
◉ what is amylase blood test?
The amylase enzyme test is a laboratory test that measures the levels of amylase in the blood or urine.
Amylase is an enzyme produced primarily by the pancreas and salivary glands in your mouth, and it plays a crucial role in the digestion and breakdown of carbohydrates.
Normally, there is a small amount of amylase in your blood and urine, but too much or too little can indicate a health problem.
The amylase blood test is used to assess the function of the pancreas, diagnose and monitor pancreatic diseases and it can also help diagnose or monitor salivary gland disorders and some digestive conditions.
◉ Why it's done?
The amylase enzyme test is an important diagnostic tool used to assess pancreatic function and diagnose or monitor conditions related to the pancreas. Such as following:
- Diagnosis of pancreatitis: Elevated levels of amylase in the blood or urine are a hallmark of acute pancreatitis, an inflammatory condition of the pancreas.
- Differentiating the causes of abdominal pain: Abdominal pain can have various origins, some of which are related to the pancreas.
- Monitoring pancreatic disorders: The amylase blood test is useful in monitoring the progression and response to treatment of pancreatic disorders.
- Screening for pancreatic cancer: Although not specific to pancreatic cancer, elevated amylase levels can sometimes be associated with this malignancy.
◉ Preparations before amylase test
Before an amylase test, it is important to follow these preparations:
- Fast for 8 to 12 hours before the test. That means you should not eat or drink anything except water.
- Avoid alcohol for 24 hours before the test.
- Inform your healthcare provider about any medications you take, as some of them can affect the test results.
- Follow the instructions given by your healthcare provider for collecting a urine sample. You may have to provide a "clean catch" urine sample in the office or collect a series of samples over 24 hours at home.
It is always best to consult with your healthcare provider for specific instructions before the test.
◉ Normal levels of amylase blood test
The normal range of the amylase test may vary depending on the laboratory and the type of sample (blood or urine).
Generally, the normal range of amylase in blood is about 30 to 110 U/L (units per liter) and in urine is about 2.6 to 21.2 IU/h (international units per hour).
◉ High levels of amylase
High values of amylase blood test can have various causes and symptoms, depending on the underlying condition.
◉ 1. Causes of high amylase levels
- Acute pancreatitis, which is a sudden and severe inflammation of the pancreas. This can be caused by gallstones, alcohol use disorder, infections, trauma, medications, or genetic factors.
- Pancreatic cancer, which is a type of cancer that starts in the pancreas. It can cause symptoms similar to pancreatitis, as well as weight loss, loss of appetite, and diabetes.Pancreatic cancer is often diagnosed at a late stage and has a poor prognosis.
- Pancreatic duct blockage, which is an obstruction of the duct that carries digestive enzymes from the pancreas to the small intestine. This can be caused by gallstones, tumors, inflammation, or scarring.
- Perforated ulcer, which is a hole in the stomach or intestine caused by an ulcer. Ulcers can be caused by infection with Helicobacter pylori bacteria, long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), or stress.
- Mumps, which is a viral infection that affects the salivary glands. It can spread through respiratory droplets or saliva.
- Pancreatic pseudocyst, which is fluid-filled sac around the pancreas
◉ 2. Symptoms of high amylase levels
- Severe abdominal pain that radiates to the back
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fever and chills
- Swollen and tender abdomen
- Rapid pulse and breathing
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
- Dark urine and pale stools
◉ Low levels of amylase test
Low levels of amylase enzyme test can have various causes and symptoms, depending on the underlying condition.
◉ 1. Causes of low amylase levels
- Chronic pancreatitis, which is a long-lasting and recurring inflammation of the pancreas. This can damage the pancreas over time, which can eventually lead to a decrease in the amount of amylase in the blood.
- Impaired salivary gland function: Certain conditions or medications can affect the function of the salivary glands, leading to reduced production of amylase.
- Cystic fibrosis: It is a genetic disorder that affects various organs, including the pancreas. It can lead to pancreatic insufficiency and reduced amylase levels.
◉ 2. Symptoms of low amylase levels
- Abdominal pain that comes and goes
- Weight loss and malnutrition
- Diabetes
- Steatorrhea (fatty and foul-smelling stools)
- Digestive problems.
◉ Related analytical tests
Other tests that may be done in conjunction with an amylase blood test include:
- Lipase test: This test measures the amount of lipase enzyme in your blood. This is also produced mainly by the pancreas.
- Glucose test: This test measures the amount of glucose (sugar) in your blood. It is regulated by insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas.
- Liver function test (AST, ALT, GGT, ALP) : A liver function test can help diagnose or monitor liver disease, which can affect the production or clearance of amylase.
- Imaging tests: It can help visualize the structure and function of the pancreas and salivary glands, and detect any abnormalities, such as inflammation, blockage, or tumors
◉ Conclusion
The amylase test is a valuable diagnostic tool used in the field of medicine to assess pancreatic function and diagnose conditions related to the pancreas.
This test measures the levels of amylase, which an enzyme produced by the pancreas, in the blood or urine. It provides valuable information for healthcare professionals to make accurate diagnoses and develop appropriate treatment plans.
However, it is important to consider the test results in the context of the patient's overall clinical picture to ensure comprehensive and accurate diagnosis.