Amylase

Biochemistry homepage 

Amylase are enzymes that catalyse the hydrolysis of starch into sugars.

 

Clinical indications

• The investigation and monitoring of suspected pancreatitis. 
• Amylase may also be raised in other pancreatic, salivary, gastrointestinal and gynaecological diseases.
• Neoplasms 
• Renal failure
• Hypoamylasaemia has been seen in advanced cystic fibrosis, severe liver disease and following pancreatectomy.

 

Specimen type: 

• Blood

 

Sample type: 

• Serum

 

Turnaround time: 

• Urgent: 2 hours
• Inpatient: 4 hours
• Outpatient: 24 hours
• GP: 24 hours