Amylase is an enzyme that breaks down starchy carbohydrates into glucose, the primary energy source for the body. Amylase is mostly produced in the pancreas but also in the salivary glands. Blood levels can increase with inflammation of the salivary glands, gallbladder, liver, or pancreas, especially in acute pancreatitis.
Levels can also increase with gastrointestinal damage, rheumatoid arthritis, ketoacidosis, infectious disease, peritonitis, alcohol, organophosphorus pesticide poisoning, and certain medications including aspirin, corticosteroids, narcotic pain killers, and oral contraceptives. A significantly increase level of amylase in the blood may reflect a life-threatening condition.
Low levels of amylase can be seen with metabolic syndrome, obesity, diabetes, fatty liver or pancreas, and prolonged pancreatitis with chronic tissue damage.
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