What is the Serum Amylase Test?
An Amylase Test, also known as a Serum Amylase Test, is used to detect chronic pancreatitis or other diseases related to the pancreas. Amylase is an enzyme released by the salivary glands and pancreas to help in the digestion of carbohydrates 1. The amylase blood test checks for the concentration of this enzyme in the blood and urine to detect and monitor the condition of your pancreas. While high amylase levels might indicate any pancreas disease, they can also be used to detect other conditions in the ovaries, salivary glands, and the intestinal tract.
About Amylase Test
Learn everything about Serum Amylase Test, before you book lab test online. Understand the why, how, and what of this test.
Why Do Doctors Recommend Amylase Tests?
Here are some of the reasons why you must take an Serum Amylase Test:
- An amylase test helps you detect and treat or monitor any underlying issue in your pancreas, like acute pancreatitis
- It can also help in detecting any other disease in your salivary glands or digestive tract
- If you’ve been facing digestive issues, feeling nauseated, or suffering from loss of appetite.
If you face any of these above issues the doctor might recommend a serum amylase test for you. Remember, any deviation from the normal amylase levels can indicate a serious condition and hence needs to be treated.
How To Prepare For Amylase Test?
The steps below help you ensure that your amylase test provides the most accurate information about your liver health.
- Fasting requirements: The Amylase test may not require fasting before the test. Follow the doctor’s instructions regarding the duration of fasting if required for the correct result.
- Medication guidelines: Tell your healthcare provider about all the drugs, supplements or herbal remedies you are taking, as some substances may affect test results. Follow any specific instructions regarding drug adjustment before testing.
- Contact to doctor: Share your entire medical history with existing conditions or any symptoms to help explain test results.
What Happens During Amylase Testing?
An Amylase Blood Test only takes a few minutes.
- As per the scheduled time of the blood test, a Lab Technician who usually takes blood samples will arrive.
- A thin needle will be used to draw blood from your arm’s vein.
- The needle might cause a mild pinch and some discomfort.
- The lab technician then fills a collection tube with blood and then removes the needle from the skin.
- They place a small bandage on the arm
Please note: There might be slight pain or bruising at the spot of insertion, but most of the symptoms go away quickly.
Finding Amylase Test
Should you book blood test online to check your health condition or go to the nearest clinic and get it done by a medical professional? Let’s Find Out
Can I Take an Amylase Blood Test At Home?
Yes, the Amylase Test can be taken at home. HealthcareOnTime’s at-home lab testing service, in association with thyrocare, provides a convenient and efficient way to get blood testing done from the comfort of your own home without the need for a doctor’s visit or a trip to a lab. It’s important to note that it’s always a good idea to consult with an expert healthcare provider about any queries you may have about your test results.
How Much Does Amylase Test Cost?
The amylase test price varies significantly depending on many factors:
- Location: The amylase test prices in India may vary depending on the city or the region in which the test is conducted. For example, in Bangalore or Mumbai, it might be expensive as compared to small towns.
- Type of facility centres: The amylase test cost also varies between private hospitals, government hospitals, and diagnostic centres. Cost is lower in government hospitals as compared to private ones.
- Healthcare centres: Diagnostic centres, laboratories and hospitals may have different amylase test prices. It depends upon the benefits and reputation of the healthcare centre.
- Insurance Coverage: Individuals with health insurance can cover partial or all costs depending on their policy coverage and network providers.
- Additional services: Additional services such as home sample collection, express test results, or additional charges for special management may be paid, which contributes to the overall Amylase test price.
Generally, the Amylase test cost in India ranges from Rs. 500 to Rs. 1000. By opting for HealthcareOnTime lab test at-home facilities, you can access an amylase test at the cost of INR 500.
Test Results Interpretation
You received your serum amylase test results but still need help determining if they fall under the normal range. Read this section to know if your results range between the amylase test normal range.
What Does Amylase Test Results Mean?
The following data shows the serum amylase normal range and the underlying conditions that higher or lower amylase levels can indicate.
Serum Amylase Concentration | Interpretation | Condition |
19 – 86 U/L2 | Normal | NIL |
Less than 19 U/L 3 | Low amylase |
|
Above 86 U/L | High amylase |
|
Please note: The amylase levels given above are an average count. However, the amylase test is normal for a healthy person and can range between 30 and 110 U/L.
What Is the Serum Amylase Test Normal Range?
The normal range for amylase is as follows 6:
Age | Category | Normal serum amylase levels |
Below 1 | Babies | 33.5 ± 33.6 |
1-5 | Infants | 178.1 ± 248.9 |
6-12 | Kids | 183.2 ± 269.5 |
Above 13 | Adolescents | 105.6 ± 91.2 |
What Medical Conditions Can Cause High Amylase Levels?
If your serum amylase test indicates high amylase concentration in your blood, it might mean you have an underlying condition. Here are some of the medical conditions that can cause high amylase levels 7:
- Acute pancreatitis
- Ovarian, lung, or pancreatic cancer
- Cholecystitis
- Blockade in the salivary glands or any infection that causes inflammation like mumps
- Blockage in the intestinal tract
- Macroamylasemia
- Blockage in the bile duct or pancreas
- Perforated ulcer
- Ectopic pregnancy
- Viral hepatitis
What Medical Conditions Can Cause Low Amylase Levels?
If your amylase concentration is lower than the normal amylase levels, it can mean you have the following conditions 8:
- Fracture in your bone
- Heart failure resulting from any congestion or blockage
- Scarring of the cells in your pancreas
- Gastrointestinal cancer
- Pregnancy
Sources
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FAQs Around Serum Amylase Test
How much does Amylase Test cost?
The Amylase Test cost is Rs.700, although it is now available for Rs.500 because of the offer.
