Amylase, Total, Serum
Use
The test is useful for the diagnosis and management of pancreatitis as well as the evaluation of pancreatic function. Amylase enzymes are hydrolases that degrade complex carbohydrates into fragments. They are mainly produced by the exocrine pancreas and secreted into the intestinal tract but also produced by salivary glands, small intestine mucosa, ovaries, placenta, liver, and fallopian tubes. Elevated levels can indicate pancreatic issues but are not specific as amylase is produced by multiple organs.
Special Instructions
Patient's age and sex are required for the test. Serum gel tubes should be centrifuged within 2 hours of collection. Red-top tubes should be centrifuged, and the serum aliquoted into a plastic vial within 2 hours of collection.
Limitations
Elevated amylase levels may not be exclusively indicative of pancreatitis since amylase is produced by several organs. Levels can also be elevated in nonpancreatic diseases such as mumps, salivary duct obstruction, ectopic pregnancy, and intestinal obstruction/infarction. Amylase results may be elevated in patients with macroamylase, which is not diagnostic for pancreatitis. Use serum lipase and urinary amylase to confirm the presence of macroamylase.
FDA ApprovedNew York Approved
Methodology
Automated Analyzer (Clinical Chemistry)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 1798-8
- 1798-8
Result Turnaround Time
1-2 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
0.5 mL
Minimum Volume
0.25 mL
Container
Serum gel tube (preferred) or red top tube
Collection Instructions
Serum gel tubes and red-top tubes should be centrifuged within 2 hours. Red-top serum should be aliquoted into a plastic vial.
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 7 days |
| Refrigerated | 30 days |
| Frozen | 30 days |