Acute Pancreatitis and Serum Amylase Levels

When a patient experiences an acute pancreatitis episode, serum amylase levels are commonly used for diagnosis. Serum amylase begins to rise within a few hours after the onset of the condition, peaks within 24 hours, and then gradually declines. Typically, levels return to normal within 4 to 5 days.

Amylase is a sensitive and reliable marker for detecting pancreatic inflammation, making it valuable in initial screening and diagnostic evaluations. In addition to measuring serum amylase, healthcare providers often test for lipase, which has higher specificity and can further support a diagnosis of pancreatitis.

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the condition, other biochemical parameters such as liver function, kidney function, and electrolyte levels should also be evaluated. These additional tests help confirm the presence of pancreatitis and assess its severity. Combining these diagnostic tools improves accuracy and supports timely clinical decisions.