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Amylase Unit Converter
Amylase is an enzyme that catalyzes the hydrolysis of starch (amylose and amylopectin) into smaller carbohydrate molecules like maltose and glucose. In humans, it exists primarily as two isoenzymes: Salivary Amylase (S-type), which initiates digestion in the mouth, and Pancreatic Amylase (P-type), which continues the process in the small intestine.
Clinically, serum amylase is the historic gold standard for diagnosing Acute Pancreatitis. Levels typically rise within 6–12 hours of onset and remain elevated for 3–5 days. While Lipase is now considered more specific for pancreatic injury (as amylase can also rise in parotitis/mumps, macroamylasemia, or perforated ulcers), amylase remains a critical component of the acute abdominal workup. Results are reported in enzymatic activity units (U/L or µkat/L). This converter ensures accurate switching between these international standards.
SI Units
RecommendedMicrokatals and Nanokatals per liter.
Conventional Units
Clinical Context
Amylase levels greater than 3 times the upper limit of normal are highly suggestive of acute pancreatitis. However, the magnitude of elevation does not correlate with disease severity. Normal levels can sometimes be seen in hypertriglyceridemia-induced pancreatitis due to assay interference or in chronic pancreatitis where the gland has burned out.
A persistently elevated amylase with normal lipase and normal renal function may suggest Macroamylasemia, a benign condition where amylase binds to immunoglobulins (IgA or IgG) and cannot be excreted by the kidneys. Reference ranges vary but are typically 28 – 100 U/L. The conversion factor is: 1 U/L ≈ 0.0167 µkat/L.
Clinical References
How to Use This Calculator
Follow these steps to get accurate clinical conversions instantly.
Enter Values
Input your laboratory results into the corresponding unit field (e.g., U/L). You can use either dot or comma decimals.
Automatic Conversion
The calculator works in real-time. As you type in one field, all other units (like µkat/L) are instantly updated.
Verify Units
Check the SI Units section. Both µkat/L and nkat/L are provided as they are standard ISO units for enzymes.
Reset
Use the Clear button to reset all fields before starting a new calculation.
Frequently Asked Questions & Tips
Amylase is an enzyme. We measure its activity (catalytic rate), not its mass. Therefore, units like U/L or katals are used.
Yes, U/L (Units per Liter) and IU/L (International Units per Liter) are interchangeable.