An amylase test measures the amount of amylase in your blood or urine. Amylase is an enzyme, or special protein, that helps you digest food. Most of your amylase is made in the pancreas and salivary glands. A small amount of amylase in your blood and urine is normal.

SPECIMEN: 2 mL (0.5 mL min.) serum from 1 SST. For fluids: 2 ml (1 mL min.) fluid in a sterile screw capped container. Ship refrigerated or frozen. Specify type of fluid on test request form and sample container.

STABILITY: Room: 4 hrs; Refrigerated: 72 hours; Frozen: 4 weeks

REPORT: Daily

USAGE: This assay detects increased levels of amylase in fluids like pleural fluid in cases of Acute pancreatitis and Pancreatic pseudocyst. It may also be elevated in cases of Peptic ulcer and Mesenteric vascular occlusion.