Diastase (urine) | Laboratory research

General Information

Diastase, also known as alpha-amylase, is an enzyme that is involved in the breakdown of complex carbohydrates, such as starch and glycogen.

Urine diastase (alpha-amylase) measures the amount of an enzyme secreted in the urine, which is consistent with the functional activity of the pancreas.

When is the survey conducted?

• Diagnosis of pancreatitis (increased urinary diastase is an important diagnostic marker for pancreatitis)
• Monitoring for chronic pancreatitis or pancreatic cancer
• Assessment of kidney function: The difference between urine and blood amylases provides information about the kidney's filtration capacity.
• Salivary gland diseases – e.g. mumps causes an increase in urinary diastase concentration

Material for examination:  Spontaneous urine

Interpretation of results

• Increased urinary diastase concentration characterizes acute pancreatitis, pancreatic cancer, gallstone disease, mumps, and renal dysfunction.
• Decreased urinary diastase concentration is seen in severe chronic pancreatitis, cystic fibrosis, and liver disease.
• The normal value of urinary diastase is considered in the context of serum amylase and clinical data.

Preparation of the patient: It is advisable to perform a hygienic procedure before collecting a urine sample. The urine sample should be stored in the refrigerator until it is delivered to the laboratory. The sample should not be stored for more than 2 hours after collection.