What is amylase?
Amylase is an enzyme that digests glycogen and starch. It is produced by the pancreas and salivary glands.
What is this test?
Amylase (spot urine) test is a simple lab test to measure the amylase levels in the urine for purposes of medical diagnosis. Normally, only a small quantity of amylase is present in the urine.
Why is this test performed?
- To diagnose problems with the pancreas, like:
- Acute pancreatitis
- Chronic pancreatitis
- Drug-induced pancreatitis
- Obstruction of pancreatic duct
- To diagnose salivary gland disorders.
- How to take the sample?
- Clean your hands and genitals
- Pour mid-stream urine in a sterile container
- Avoid contact of container with genitals
- Store the sample in a cool place
- Wash your hands properly.
- What are the symptoms of a pancreatic disorder?
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Fever
- Abdominal pain.
- Is amylase present in urine, normally?
Yes, amylase is present in urine normally but negligible amounts.
- Can I collect urine sample at home?
Yes, urine samples may be collected at home but should be provided to the laboratory within an hour.
- Is this test safe?
This test is very safe, it’s like urinating normally.
Normal range
2.6 – 21.2 International units per hour.
- Interpretation of test results:
Increased levels of urinary amylase are due to:
- Acute pancreatitis
- Alcohol abuse
- Diabetic ketoacidosis
- Malignancy
- Renal failure
- Burns
- Ovarian cysts
Decreased levels are due to:
- Kidney disease
- Pancreatic damage
- Liver disease
- Macroamylaseemia
