The Amylase Test is a diagnostic procedure used to measure the level of amylase, an enzyme that helps break down starches in the digestive system. It is commonly used to diagnose conditions related to the pancreas, such as pancreatitis, or to assess other digestive disorders. In this article, we will cover the cost, procedure, normal range, and potential risks associated with the amylase test to help you understand its role in diagnosing health issues.
What is the Amylase Test?
An amylase test checks the levels of amylase, an enzyme, in your blood or urine. Amylase is mainly made by the pancreas and salivary glands to aid in breaking down carbohydrates into simpler sugars. This test is frequently used to identify and monitor issues related to the pancreas and digestive system. However, having too much or too little might be a symptom of a pancreatic or salivary gland issue or another illness. Other names: Amy test, serum amylase, and urine amylase.
Why is the Amylase Test Done?
The primary function of tests for amylase in blood or urine is to identify pancreatic issues, such as pancreatitis, an inflammation of the pancreas. It is used to monitor chronic (long-term) pancreatitis. Amylase levels increase and decrease in blood before they do in urine. Hence, an amylase urine test can be performed concurrently with or after an amylase blood test. Other illnesses that may affect amylase levels, such as salivary gland issues and other digestive problems, may also be diagnosed or treated using one or both of the amylase tests.
Get a second opinion from trusted experts and makeconfident, informed decisions.
Get Second OpinionWhen is the Amylase Test Needed?
If you exhibit signs of a pancreatic problem, your doctor may request a blood or urine test for amylase. The following symptoms may appear quickly or gradually:
- Abdomen pain (upper belly) that might spread toward the back or get worse after eating
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fever
- Fast heartbeat
- Jaundice
- Greasy, foul-smelling stool (poop)
Who Should Take the Amylase Test?
Your healthcare physician may prescribe an amylase test to track one or more pancreatic conditions, such as:
- Pancreatic cancer
- Chronic pancreatitis
- Cystic fibrosis
- Eating disorders
- Recovery from gallstones removed after a gallbladder attack.
- Alcohol use disorder
How Should I Prepare for the Amylase Test?
To prepare for an amylase blood test, follow these steps:
- Avoid alcohol for 24 hours before the test.
- Your healthcare provider may recommend fasting for 2 hours before the test.
- Inform your provider about any medications, as some can affect amylase levels.
- For a urine test, you may be asked to collect a clean-catch sample or a 24-hour urine sample.
What Type of Sample is Collected for the Amylase Test and How?
A medical expert will use a tiny needle to draw blood from a vein in your arm for an amylase blood test. To receive an amylase urine test, you must provide a urine sample using the "clean catch" technique:
- Wash and dry hands.
- Open the container without touching the inside.
- Clean the genital area with a wipe.
- Urinate a small amount into the toilet, then collect midstream urine into the container.
- Fill to at least one or two ounces.
- Cap the container tightly and return it as instructed.
Are There Other Ways to Collect the Sample for the Amylase Test?
Your healthcare doctor can ask you to collect all your pee in one 24-hour period using a large container to get a more accurate result. In some cases, a peritoneal fluid amylase test may be ordered. A medical expert will numb your skin and insert a needle and tubing to collect fluid from your abdominal cavity.
How is the Amylase Test Performed?
Blood Test:
- A healthcare professional will use a needle to draw a small amount of blood from a vein in your arm.
- Blood is collected into a vial or test tube for analysis.
Urine Test:
- You'll provide a urine sample using the clean-catch method.
- For a 24-hour urine test, you'll collect all urine samples over a full day.
Peritoneal Fluid Test:
- A sample of fluid in your abdominal cavity is taken using a needle and tubing after numbing the area.
Your health is everything - prioritize your well-being today.
How Long Does the Amylase Test Take?
Blood sample collection and urine sample collection take just a few minutes. The 24-hour urine sample collection process spans a full day. Peritoneal fluid collection also takes about 20-30 minutes.
When Will I Get My Amylase Test Results?
You will usually receive your Amylase Test results within 12 to 24 hours, depending on the lab's processing time. Reports are sent directly to you via WhatsApp or as a printed copy. Once you have your results, our doctor will explain them and guide you on the next steps, if needed.
How Do I Understand My Amylase Test Results?
High Amylase Levels in blood, urine, or peritoneal fluid may indicate:
- Acute pancreatitis
- A blockage in a duct in the pancreas
- Pancreatic cancer or benign (non-cancerous) tumors
- Lack of blood flow to the intestines
- A blocked intestine
Low Amylase Levels may indicate:
- Advanced chronic pancreatitis
- Kidney disease
- Cystic fibrosis
- Liver disease
- Pre-eclampsia (high blood pressure during pregnancy)
Your prescription or over-the-counter medications should be disclosed to your healthcare practitioner, as they may impact the results.
What Should I Do After Getting My Amylase Test Results?
- Discuss findings with your doctor.
- Follow recommendations for additional tests, like lipase tests if needed.
- If abnormal results are found, treatment will depend on the underlying cause.
Are There Any Risks or Side Effects of the Amylase Test?
Blood test risks:
- Minor pain or bruising at the needle site.
Urine test risks:
- No known risks.
Peritoneal fluid collection risks:
- Slight risk of bleeding, infection, or injury to the intestines or bladder.
- Temporary dizziness or lightheadedness.
Is the Amylase Test Painful?
The Amylase blood and urine tests are mostly painless, with a minor sting or brief discomfort during the blood draw. Peritoneal fluid sampling might cause slight discomfort.
What are the Factors Affecting the Amylase Test Cost?
- Type of test performed (blood, urine, or peritoneal fluid)
- Diagnostic center location
- Technology and equipment used
- Doctor's consultation and sample collection services
How Much Does the Amylase Test Cost in India?
The cost of an Amylase Test in India typically ranges between Rs.500 to Rs.700, depending on the diagnostic center, the type of sample collected (blood or urine), and the city.
Amylase Test Price Table by Location
| City | Amylase Test Price Range (Rs.) |
| Hyderabad | 500 - 700 |
| Chandanagar | 500 - 700 |
| Karimnagar | 500 - 700 |
| Nizamabad | 500 - 700 |
| Warangal | 500 - 700 |
| Visakhapatnam | 500 - 700 |
| Srikakulam | 500 - 700 |
| Kakinada | 500 - 700 |
| Kurnool | 500 - 700 |
| Nellore | 500 - 700 |
| Vizianagaram | 500 - 700 |
| Navi Mumbai | 500 - 700 |
| Nashik | 500 - 700 |
| Chh. Sambhajinagar | 500 - 700 |
| Pune | 500 - 700 |
| Sangamner | 500 - 700 |
| Bangalore | 500 - 700 |
Note: The actual price may vary slightly based on the diagnostic center, city, and additional services offered.
Other Tests
Frequently Asked Questions
The Amylase Test measures the level of amylase enzyme in your blood or urine, helping diagnose issues with the pancreas, salivary glands, or digestive system. Elevated or low levels may indicate pancreatitis, blockages, or infections.
High Amylase levels indicate either acute or chronic pancreatitis. Acute pancreatitis might result in amylase levels four to six times greater than the top limit of the normal range.
The usual range of Amylase is 40 to 140 units per litre (U/L) or 0.38 to 1.42 microkat/L (µkat/L). However, normal value ranges might differ slightly among laboratories, as some use different measurement methods.
Diseases that cause high Amylase are ectopic amylase production by lung, ovary, pancreas, and colon malignancies; thymoma; multiple myeloma; and breast cancer.
Signs indicating a high amylase level are intense exhaustion, frequent urination, excessive thirst, weight loss, weakness, sweating, and nausea.
Limit intake of fried, fatty, and sugary foods, as they may worsen pancreatic stress. Focus on easily digestible, low-fat foods to reduce the burden on the pancreas.
Yes, stress can elevate amylase levels as part of the body's stress response, impacting saliva and digestive enzyme production. For comprehensive testing, visit Medicover Hospitals.
Before a blood or urine test for Amylase, you might be asked to fast (avoid food and liquids for two hours before the test) if you have a blood test.
The cost of an amylase test ranges from Rs. 500 to Rs. 700. It might vary from place to place and hospital to hospital.
Medicover Hospitals offers various kinds of pathology tests. You can get an Amylase Test at Medicover Hospitals across India, offering accurate diagnostics with advanced lab facilities.
