Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Testing the level of pancreatic amylase, also known as AMY, is an important diagnostic tool used to assess pancreatic function. In this article, we will discuss what exactly pancreatic amylase is, when and why it is worth testing its level, how to prepare for the test, how to interpret the results, and what the norms and possible deviations from them are.
What is pancreatic amylase?
Pancreatic amylase is an enzyme secreted by the pancreas that plays an important role in the digestion process. Its main task is to break down starch and glycogen into simpler sugars such as glucose. Pancreatic amylase is also present in saliva and is secreted by the salivary glands, which allows the digestion process to begin in the mouth.
Indications for testing the level of pancreatic amylase
Testing of pancreatic amylase levels may be recommended in various clinical situations. The main indications for this test include:
- Missionary stomach aches
- Symptoms of pancreatitis such as abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting
- Monitoring the condition of the pancreas in people with diabetes
- Assessment of the effectiveness of treatment of pancreatic diseases
- Diagnosis of pancreatic stones or biliary stricture
Testing the level of pancreatic amylase may also be performed as part of routine preventive examinations, especially in patients with a family history of pancreatic diseases or diabetes.
Amylase – preparation and course of the test
Before testing your pancreatic amylase level, there are several important steps you should take:
- Consult your doctor – It is always a good idea to consult your doctor before undergoing this test to obtain accurate information about its course and the meaning of the results.
- Preparation for the test – in most cases, the test only requires taking a blood sample. The patient should be fasting, which means he should not consume any food or drink for at least 8 hours before the test.
- Test procedure – During the test, a nurse or medical technician will take a blood sample from the patient’s vein using a needle. This process is usually not very painful and takes only a few minutes.
After collecting the blood sample, the patient can return to daily activities; there is no need to restrict physical activity or diet.
Amylase (amy) – normal, low, elevated
Interpretation of pancreatic amylase level test results involves comparing the results obtained with the standards set by the laboratory. Reference values may vary slightly from lab to lab, but typically range from 23 to 85 units per liter (U/L).
Low pancreatic amylase may indicate pancreatic hypofunction or problems with pancreatic secretion. Elevated amylase may be a symptom of pancreatitis, pancreatic stones, or biliary stenosis. However, elevated amylase levels may also be the result of other diseases, so it is important to consult the results with your doctor.
Amylase test – price/reimbursement, referrals
The price of pancreatic amylase testing may vary depending on the region and medical facility. In some cases, the test may be covered by National Health Fund reimbursement if there are appropriate medical indications.
A referral for an amylase test can be made by a general practitioner, a gastroenterologist, or another specialist dealing with pancreatic diseases. It is also worth consulting a doctor to obtain information about available medical facilities and the prices of the test.
Your suggestions
If you have any symptoms suggesting pancreas problems, such as abdominal pain, nausea, or unusual blood test results, do not delay visiting your doctor. He will be able to assess whether pancreatic amylase level testing is advisable in your case.
Recommended articles
If you are interested in the topic of the pancreas and its functions, it is also worth reading other articles on this topic, such as “Pancreatitis – causes, symptoms and treatment” or “Diabetes – what you should know”. Knowledge about the pancreas and its role in the body can help you maintain health and prevent disease.
Testing your pancreatic amylase level is an important diagnostic tool that can help identify problems with your pancreas and other digestive system conditions. It is worth taking care of your health and regularly performing the necessary tests to recognize possible problems early and initiate appropriate treatment.