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Summary on Amylase enzyme levels.  The four responses are as follows:

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From: Ed Gore <[log in to unmask]>
Subject: Amylase in celiac disease
Hi there, I have had four incidents, requiring hospitalization,
for high levels of amylase. The reason for the high levels was when
I ingested a large amount of gluten, my intestines became inflammed.
When that happened they apparently blocked a duct to my Pancreas
(pancreatitis)causing intense pain in my abdominal region. That is
what caused my amylase level to rise. I can't recall what it was at
those times or what it is now, but I can tell when it is getting high.
I will have a sharp pain over my umbilicus, which usually goes away
after a short time. It takes a certain amount of ingested gluten for
my amylase to rise, which is caused by the pancreatitis. I will do
some checking and find out how high my amylase levels became, and find
out what the normal level should be.

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From Norbert: <[log in to unmask]>
I read Abigail's post on the list.  I was dianosed with CD 20 years
ago and have had multiple tests, surgeries, etc.  The only time I was
told that I had a high amylase level was when I was admitted to a
hospital and diagnosed with acute pancreatitis.  Nine months later,
I had an ERCP (to explore the pancreas and bile duct) and had a
sphincterotomy to open the duct which was partially blocked.  The
second gastro (whom I believed) said that I probably was having this
problem when I had the high amylase level rather than having
pancreatitis.  I have not had any problems with the high amylase since
but my cholesterol was sky high and it is beginning to come down
(298).  At any rate, I certainly would get a second opinion, from a
doctor who is very familiar with cd before accepting this opinion that
this is norma.  If you would like, post me back and I'll try to
retrieve my records and see what normal is, so you can compare.

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From Elizabeth <[log in to unmask]>
Amylase Levels in Celiac Disease:
Several of my liver enzymes were consistently elevated, including
amylase, at time of diagnosis. Several returned to normal after 8
months on the diet, but I haven't had amylase specifically rechecked.
My gastro said he didn't think there was a connection, but *I* think
there is (with no scientific basis...)

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From: Donald  <[log in to unmask]>
Subject: Re:Amylase Levels in CD Patients
I find your question interesting; When I first became ill 10 years
ago, I had high amylase readings. After 18 months and 4 "reknown"
gastroenterologists I was finally diagnosed with CD. It took the
following 7 years on a strict GF diet to get my amylase just below the
max. It is still at that level.

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