Test Details: Amylase test is used to measure the amount of amylase in the blood. Amylase is an enzyme, or special protein, produced by the pancreas and salivary glands. It helps in breaking down of carbohydrates and promotes digestion. The pancreas can sometimes become damaged or inflamed, which causes it to produce too much or too little amylase. This test is used to diagnose pancreatic pseudocyst, pancreatic abscess and pancreatic cancer.