What are Pancreas Biomarkers?
Amylase
Amylase is an enzyme made by your pancreas and salivary glands that helps break down carbohydrates into sugars your body can use. Irregular levels can signal salivary gland problems, celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), or even tumors in amylase-producing tissues.
Example: Amylase is like scissors cutting up carbs into usable sugar fuel—too much or too little may point to pancreatic or digestive trouble.
How it’s measured: Blood test (and sometimes urine test) measuring amylase enzyme levels.
Lipase
Lipase is a digestive enzyme made by the pancreas that helps break down fats. High levels often signal pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) and may also point to kidney disease, gallbladder issues, pancreatic cancer, or esophageal disorders.
Example: Lipase is like dish soap for fat—too much in your blood could mean your pancreas is stressed or inflamed.
How it’s measured: Blood test measuring lipase enzyme levels.
