A serum amylase blood test is a laboratory test that measures the level of amylase in the blood. Amylase is an enzyme that is produced by the pancreas and salivary glands. It helps to digest carbohydrates and is important for the proper functioning of the digestive system.
The amylase blood test is typically ordered to help diagnose and monitor pancreatitis, a condition in which the pancreas becomes inflamed. A high level of amylase in the blood (elevated amylase) may indicate pancreatitis, while a low level of amylase (decreased amylase) may be due to certain medications or conditions that affect the pancreas or salivary glands.
The test is usually performed on a sample of blood that is drawn from a vein in the arm.
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