An amylase test measures the level of amylase, an enzyme produced primarily by the pancreas and salivary glands, in your blood or urine. Amylase helps break down carbohydrates into sugars, which your body uses for energy. The amylase test is an important diagnostic tool for assessing pancreatic and salivary gland function. It helps diagnose and monitor conditions like acute and chronic pancreatitis, pancreatic cancer, and other abdominal issues. By providing critical information about enzyme levels, the test aids healthcare providers in making accurate diagnoses and guiding appropriate treatment plans.