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Pancreatic Amylase Unit Converter
Pancreatic Amylase (P-type) is an isoenzyme of amylase produced exclusively by the acinar cells of the pancreas. Total serum amylase consists of both P-type (pancreatic) and S-type (salivary) isoenzymes. While total amylase is a sensitive marker for inflammation, it lacks specificity because it can be elevated in salivary gland disorders (like mumps or trauma).[Image of pancreas acinar cells secreting enzymes]
Measuring Pancreatic Amylase specifically eliminates the interference from salivary sources, offering higher specificity for diagnosing Acute Pancreatitis. It is particularly useful in patients with unexplained hyperamylasemia or in excluding pancreatic involvement in patients with parotitis. Like total amylase, results are reported in enzymatic activity units (U/L or µkat/L). This converter allows precise switching between these standards.
SI Units
RecommendedMicrokatals and Nanokatals per liter.
Conventional Units
Clinical Context
Pancreatic Amylase typically accounts for about 40-45% of total serum amylase in healthy adults. In acute pancreatitis, P-amylase rises within hours and typically remains elevated longer than total amylase.
Reference ranges are method-dependent but generally fall between 13 – 53 U/L. A normal P-amylase in the presence of elevated total amylase suggests a non-pancreatic etiology (e.g., salivary, macroamylasemia). The conversion factor follows standard enzyme kinetics: 1 U/L ≈ 16.67 nkat/L ≈ 0.017 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 for standard compliance.
Reset
Use the Clear button to reset all fields before starting a new calculation.
Frequently Asked Questions & Tips
It is more specific to the pancreas than Total Amylase, which also rises with salivary gland issues.
Yes, U/L (Units per Liter) and IU/L (International Units per Liter) are interchangeable.