Macroamylasemia can occur when autoantibodies bind to the amylase molecule. This can occur in patients with celiac disease as well as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
Significance in a patient with celiac disease:
(1) The presence of macroamylasemia may be the first indication of celiac disease.
(2) The macroamylasemia may disappear after the person has been placed on a gluten-free diet. For a person who shows this response, measurement of amylase could be a way to monitor adherence to the diet.
(3) Recognition of the association may prevent an unnecessary and expensive workup.
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