Pancreatic Amylase Test

Amylase analysis measures the level of this digestive enzyme in the blood serum. Amylase is secreted primarily by the alveolar cells of the pancreas and by the salivary glands. Its main function is to break down starches and complex sugars into simpler sugars. When there is inflammation or damage to the pancreatic tissue (as in acute pancreatitis), or an obstruction of its ducts, the enzyme leaks in large quantities into the bloodstream, causing its level to rise rapidly.