Amylase - urine
Definition
This is a test that measures the amount of amylase in urine. Amylase is an enzyme that helps digest carbohydrates. It is produced mainly in the pancreas and the glands that make saliva.
Amylase may also be measured with a blood test. See: Amylase - blood
Why the Test is Performed
This test is done to diagnose pancreatitis and other diseases that affect the pancreas. Your doctor may also order this test to see how treatment for such conditions is working.
How the Test is Performed
A urine sample is needed. The test may be performed using a single urine sample or a 24-hour urine collection. For information on how to collect a sample, see:
How to Prepare for the Test
Your health care provider may tell you to stop taking certain drugs that can affect test results. Drugs that can increase amylase levels include:
- Asparaginase
- Aspirin
- Pentazocine
- Cholinergic agents
- Corticosteroids
- Indomethacin
- Loop and thiazide diuretics
- Methyldopa
- Codeine
- Morphine
- Birth control pills
How the Test Will Feel
The test involves only normal urination, and there is no discomfort.
Risks
There are no risks.
Normal Results
The normal range is 2.6 to 21.2 international units per hour (IU/h).
What Abnormal Results Mean
An increased amount of amylase in the urine is called amylasuria. Increased amylase levels may indicate:
- Acute pancreatitis
- Alcohol consumption
- Cancer of the pancreas, ovaries, or lungs
- Cholecystitis
- Ectopic or ruptured tubal pregnancy
- Gallbladder disease
- Infection of the salivary glands (mumps or an obstruction)
- Intestinal obstruction
- Pancreatic duct obstruction
- Perforated ulcer
- Damage to the pancreas
- Kidney disease
- Pancreatic cancer
- Toxemia of pregnancy
Reviewed By: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
