Amylase

Alpha-amylase, α-amylase

24 Hours

Enzymatic colorimetric

13 - 53 U/L

This test is for detection of amylase in serum or plasma, although some publications suggest lipase is a more clinically useful test for assessing pancreatic function and sufficiency.

Accredited NRL Laboratory

Daily

Amylase (a.k.a. alpha amylase) is a digestive enzyme mainly produced by the pancreas and salivary glands. Measurement is predominantly indicated for the assessment of pancreatic function and sufficiency but may also aid in the diagnosis of conditions such as acute pancreatitis.

Serum or Plasma

0.5 mL

Serum Separator Tube (SST; Gold Top), Plain Tube (Red Top), Lithium Heparin Plasma (PST; Green Top)

No special preparation is required for this test. You may eat, drink, and take your medications as normal, unless instructed otherwise by your healthcare provider.

This test does not require any special collection or pre-analytical handling. Follow routine specimen collection protocols.