Amylase P3/Amylase total

An amylase test measures the amount of amylase in your blood or urine (pee). Amylase is an enzyme, a protein that speeds up chemical reactions in your body. Amylase helps you digest carbohydrates. Most of the amylase in your body is made by your pancreas and salivary (spit) glands.

Tests for amylase in blood or urine are mainly used to diagnose problems with your pancreas, including pancreatitis, which is inflammation of the pancreas. The test is also used to monitor chronic (long-term) pancreatitis.