Amylase
What this test measures
Amylase is an enzyme made mainly by the pancreas and the salivary glands to digest starch. Some of it circulates in the blood all the time.
Why doctors request it
It is the usual first test when abdominal pain raises the question of pancreas inflammation, and it appears on some general panels.
What commonly pushes it up
- Inflammation of the pancreas
- Salivary gland conditions, including mumps
- A blocked pancreatic duct or gallstones
- Kidney disease, because the kidneys clear it
- Some medicines as a class
- A harmless form bound to other proteins (macroamylasaemia)
What commonly pushes it down
- Long-standing pancreas damage where less enzyme is made
- Some liver conditions
Everyday reasons for a value outside the range
- It rises and falls within days of a pancreas event, so timing matters
- Salivary amylase can raise it without any pancreas problem
- Kidney disease raises it
About the sample
No fasting needed. Lipase is more specific for the pancreas and many labs now prefer it.
Upload a photo or PDF and see every line against the range your lab printed, explained in plain English. First report free.
Read my report freeThis is an educational summary of results you uploaded. It is not medical advice, a diagnosis or a treatment plan, and it does not replace the doctor who requested the test. If you are worried, or a result is marked outside range, discuss it with your doctor. Written and reviewed by a UK consultant physician. Reference ranges vary between laboratories.