Amylase

Introduction

Pancreas, liver and small intestine are the main sources of serum amylase. In healthy dogs and cats most amylase is derived from the small intestine. Excretion is via the kidney and any reduction in the glomerular filtration rate will lead to increased serum concentrations, but usually less than 2-3x the upper normal limit. Elevated serum amylase is not a reliable marker of pancreatitis in the cat. Unexplained increases in this species may be due to intestinal amylase.

Causes of increased amylase activity

• Acute pancreatitis (dog)
• Renal dysfunction (dog)
• Dexamethasone treatment
• Pancreatic neoplasia and abscessation
• Gastrointestinal disease

Complementary tests

When elevated, serum lipase levels should also be determined. PLI may be used for further investigation when the clinical signs are suggestive of pancreatitis to support the diagnosis.

Authors and References

NationWide Laboratories