About Amylase
Amylase is an enzyme produced primarily by the pancreas and salivary glands that breaks down carbohydrates; elevated serum amylase is most commonly caused by pancreatitis — acute inflammation of the pancreas. In acute pancreatitis, amylase rises within 6–12 hours of the attack and normalises within 3–5 days, while lipase stays elevated longer and is generally considered more specific. Elevated amylase is also seen in salivary gland disease, intestinal obstruction, ectopic pregnancy, and certain medications, making clinical context essential for interpretation.