Hyperamylasemia

Background

  • Amylase is secreted by the pancreas into the duodenum where it aids the catabolism of carbohydrates to simple sugars[1]
  • Damage to the pancreas or obstruction to the pancreatic duct causes the enzyme to enter the bloodstream.

Clinical Features

  • Pain in the middle of the chest that radiates to the back
  • Fever
  • Loss of appetite
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Sweating
  • Weakness
  • Jaundice
  • Rapid pulse
  • Steatorrhea

Differential Diagnosis

Evaluation

Workup

Diagnosis

  • Amylase level >100 U/dl

Management

Disposition

See Also

External Links

References

  1. Concise Book of Medical Laboratory Technology: Methods and Interpretations. 2nd Edition. 2015. Ramnik Sood. ISBN: 978-93-5152-333-8. Pag. 519.