The first enzyme elevated in acute pancreatitis is amylase. What Is Amylase?
Amylase is an enzyme that helps the body break down carbohydrates into simpler forms, such as glucose, which can be used for energy. It is found in saliva, the pancreas, and the small intestine. When the pancreas is inflamed, as it is in acute pancreatitis, amylase is released into the bloodstream and can be measured with a blood test. High levels of amylase in the blood indicate an inflammation of the pancreas. Other enzymes, such as lipase and trypsin, may also be elevated in acute pancreatitis, but amylase is usually the first enzyme to be elevated.