Question

A client presents to the ED with a stab wound to the abdomen following an assault. It is suspected that the client has an injury to the pancreas. Which laboratory study is used to detect pancreatic injury?a) Urinalysis
b) Serum amylase
c) White blood cell count
d) Hemoglobin and hematocrit

Answer 1

Answer:

The correct option is: b) Serum amylase

Explanation:

Amylase is an enzyme produced by the pancreas and salivary gland that is responsible for catalyzing the hydrolysis of starch into sugars.

When the pancreas is inflamed or damaged, it produces abnormal amount of the amylase enzyme. Therefore, blood serum amylase test is usually performed to determine the amount of amylase in the body for the purpose of medical diagnosis.

Therefore, blood serum amylase test can be used to detect pancreatic injury.