Amylase

Message

Do not test for amylase in cases of suspected acute pancreatitis. Instead, test for lipase. Testing both amylase and lipase is generally discouraged because it increases costs while only marginally improving diagnostic efficiency compared to either marker alone.

Test Code

AMY

CPT Codes
82150

Preferred Specimen

GREEN Lithium Heparin Plasma

Minimum Volume

0.25 mL

Other Acceptable Specimens

SST Serum Separator, Red No Gel

Instructions

Separate from cells within 4 hours of collection

Transport Container

GREEN Lithium Heparin

Transport Temperature

Room Temperature

Specimen Stability

Room Temp: 7 Days; Refrigerated: 7 Days

Reject Criteria (Eg, hemolysis? Lipemia? Thaw/Other?)

Not separated from cells within 4 hours of collection

Methodology
Vitros 7600/3400

Reference Range

30-110 U/L

Clinical Significance

Amylase is an amylolytic digestive enzyme produced by the exocrine pancreas and salivary glands. Amylase is increased in acute pancreatitis, pancreatic abscess or pseudocyst, pancreatic trauma, amyloidosis, pancreatic neoplasm, commonbile-duct obstruction, and after thoracic surgery. Increased amylase activity may be found in mumps parotitis and renal insufficiency.

Performed By
RFGH Laboratory

Performing Laboratory
RFGH Laboratory

The CPT Codes provided in this document are based on AMA guidelines and are for informational purposes only. CPT coding is the sole responsibility of the billing party. Please direct any questions regarding coding to the payor being billed. Any Profile/panel component may be ordered separately. Reflex tests are performed at an additional charge.