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IDEXX VetTest* Chemistry Analyzer Operator’s Manual
Amylase/AMYL
Important: Read this page in conjunction with the details on Lipase (LIPA).
The enzymes amylase and lipase are found at high activity in the pancreas and to a
lesser extent in the salivary glands, small intestinal mucosa, and liver. They have a short
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may be used in the confirmation of acute pancreatitis, but because of the slightly longer
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Principal reason for performing the test:
As an indicator of acute pancreatitis.
Most common abnormality indicted by the test:
Acute necrotic pancreatitis and renal failure.
Special precautions in sample collection:
Blood samples should be taken within one day of the onset of symptoms suggesting
acute pancreatitis. Do not use oxalate, citrate or EDTA anticoagulants. Remove plasma
or serum promptly from the clot or cells. Hemolyzed specimens should not be used.
Complementary tests:
Amylase and lipase are usually determined in conjunction with tests of hepatic and
pancreatic damage and function.