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Alpha Amylase Pancreatic
Amylase is mostly measured for the diagnosis of acute pancreatitis where in serum levels are found to be elevated. In acute pancreatitis α-Amylase starts rising approximately four hours after the onset of pain, reaches peak at 24 hour and remains elevated for 3 to 7 days. High levels of amylase are also associated with other disorders, like biliary tract diseases, severe glomerular dysfunction and salivary gland disorders.
Normally, only low levels of amylase are found in the blood or urine. However, if the pancreas or salivary glands become damaged or blocked, more amylase is usually released into the blood and urine. In the blood, amylase levels rise for only a short time. In the urine, amylase may remain high for several days.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.