Amylase Enzymatic Test

What does the Amylase Test measure?

The amylase test measures specific aspects of your digestive health:

• Amylase enzyme levels: A protein your body produces to break down starches and complex carbohydrates from foods like rice, potatoes, and bread
• Pancreatic function: How well your pancreas is working to produce digestive enzymes
• Inflammation indicators: When your pancreas is inflamed or damaged, it releases large amounts of amylase into your bloodstream
• Salivary gland activity: Since amylase is also produced in your mouth's salivary glands

Amylase Test: Who Needs It and Why It's Done

What Symptoms May Call for an Amylase Test?

Your doctor may recommend an amylase test if you experience these concerning symptoms:

• Sudden, severe pain in your upper abdomen that may spread to your back
• Persistent nausea and vomiting
• Fever and chills without clear cause
• Loss of appetite lasting several days
• Swollen or tender abdomen
• Rapid heartbeat
• Yellowing of your skin and eyes (jaundice)

Who should get an Amylase Test?

Several groups of people may benefit from this important diagnostic test:

• Patients with acute symptoms: Anyone experiencing severe abdominal pain and related symptoms
• Those with chronic conditions: People being monitored for ongoing pancreatic problems or pancreatic cancer
• Post-surgery patients: Individuals recovering from abdominal surgeries, especially gallstone removal
• Medication monitoring: Patients taking medicines that may affect pancreatic function

Why is an Amylase Test done?

An amylase test serves as a crucial first step to quickly identify acute pancreatitis and other pancreatic disorders. This allows doctors to start appropriate treatment promptly, which is essential since pancreatic inflammation can become life-threatening without proper medical care.

Importance of an Amylase Test

The amylase test plays a vital role in emergency medicine and ongoing pancreatic care. When your amylase levels are significantly elevated, it strongly suggests acute pancreatitis, enabling doctors to begin treatment immediately.

For patients with known pancreatic conditions, regular amylase monitoring helps track treatment effectiveness and detect any worsening of the disease. This test also helps differentiate pancreatic problems from other causes of abdominal pain, leading to more accurate diagnoses and targeted medical care.

Amylase Test Booking & Reports – Metropolis Healthcare India

How to Book an Amylase Test?

1. Simple Online Booking
   Booking can be done through the Metropolis Healthcare app or website. Select the Amylase Test, choose a convenient time slot, and provide your address for a blood test at home. You can also visit the nearest Metropolis Lab if you prefer to give the sample directly at the lab.
2. Safe Home Sample Collection
   Our trained phlebotomists ensure timely collection of your sample while strictly following all safety and hygiene protocols.
3. Sample Tracking Updates
   Stay informed at every step. From collection to testing, you can track your sample directly through the Metropolis Healthcare website.
4. Accurate Laboratory Testing
   Your sample is processed at our NABL & CAP accredited laboratories, where expert technicians ensure accurate results.
5. Quick & Easy Reports
   Receive your test reports promptly via email, WhatsApp, or by downloading them directly from the Metropolis Healthcare website or app.

Is home sample collection for Amylase Test available near you?

Yes, home blood sample collection is available for the amylase test. Our trained phlebotomists visit your home at your preferred time, following strict safety protocols to collect your blood sample with care. This service eliminates the need for travel, especially helpful when you're experiencing abdominal discomfort. With Metropolis Healthcare's extensive network of over 10,000 touchpoints across India, we ensure you receive accurate results without compromising on quality or safety.

How Long Does It Take to Get an Amylase Test Report?

Reports are usually available 4 hours after the sample reaches the pathology lab.

Where can I see or get Amylase Test results?

Test results from Metropolis Healthcare can be accessed through multiple convenient channels. You can log in to the Metropolis website using your credentials or use the Metropolis Healthcare app to view and download your reports. Additionally, test reports are sent via email or WhatsApp, and you also have the option to collect a physical copy directly from the lab.

Interpreting Amylase Test Results

What Your Amylase Test Results May Indicate

The following table helps you understand what your amylase test results might mean:

Conditions that May Affect Amylase Test Accuracy

Several factors can influence your amylase test results and should be discussed with your doctor:

• Pregnancy and recent kidney transplant can affect test accuracy
• Medications including aspirin, diuretics, oral contraceptives, corticosteroids, indomethacin, and opiates may interfere with results
• Alcohol consumption within 24 hours before the test can significantly impact amylase levels
• Macroamylase condition may cause falsely elevated results, requiring additional lipase and urinary amylase testing
• Dehydration can concentrate blood substances, potentially altering readings
• Recent eating may cause temporary mild increases in amylase levels

How is an Amylase Test Done?

The amylase test follows a standard blood collection procedure that is quick and straightforward:

• A healthcare professional cleans the inside of your elbow with antiseptic
• An elastic band is tied around your upper arm to make veins more visible
• A sterile needle is inserted into the vein, and a small blood sample is collected in a vial
• The needle is removed, and a cotton ball or bandage is applied to prevent bleeding
• Your blood sample is sent to our NABL & CAP accredited laboratory for analysis

How Should You Prepare for an Amylase Test?

Proper amylase test preparation ensures accurate amylase test results:

• No fasting required: You can eat and drink normally before the test
• Alcohol restriction: Avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours before your test
• Medication disclosure: Inform your doctor about all medicines, vitamins, and supplements you're taking
• Stay hydrated: Drink adequate water unless your doctor advises otherwise
• Follow specific instructions: Always follow the preparation guidelines provided by your doctor or laboratory

Diseases that an Amylase Test Can Help Detect

An amylase test serves as a valuable diagnostic tool for identifying various health conditions:

• Acute pancreatitis: Sudden inflammation of the pancreas
• Chronic pancreatitis: Long-term pancreatic inflammation and damage
• Pancreatic tumours: Including pancreatic cancer
• Salivary gland disorders: Problems affecting saliva production
• Intestinal blockage: Obstruction in the digestive tract
• Peptic ulcers: Sores in the stomach lining
• Appendicitis: Inflammation of the appendix
• Ruptured ectopic pregnancy: A serious pregnancy complication

Amylase Test/Packages that You Can Book With Metropolis Healthcare

The following table shows related tests available with your amylase test:

Amylase Test Prices in Different Cities

The cost of an amylase test may vary depending on your location. Here's a table showing the approximate prices in different cities.

Reference:
Henry's Clinical Diagnosis and Management by Laboratory Methods. 24th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2022:chap 23