Amylase testing is primarily used to diagnose?

Amylase testing is primarily used to diagnose acute or chronic pancreatitis because amylase is an enzyme produced mainly by the pancreas and salivary glands. When the pancreas becomes inflamed, such as in pancreatitis, amylase levels can rise significantly in the blood. This rise occurs because the damaged pancreas releases more amylase into the bloodstream. Elevated levels of amylase can assist healthcare providers in determining the presence of pancreatic issues, particularly pancreatitis. While other conditions may cause changes in amylase levels, its most critical role lies in the evaluation of pancreatic health. This specificity to the pancreas underlines the importance of amylase testing in clinical assessments related to pancreatic function and disorders.