Final answer:
Serum amylase with a normal range of 60-160 U/L is primarily used for evaluating pancreatic function and is not directly related to assessing liver or renal function, nor is it used for measuring cardiac enzyme levels.
Step-by-step explanation:
When considering the normal range of serum amylase (60-160 U/L), it is crucial to understand that this enzyme is primarily associated with evaluating pancreatic function. Serum amylase is an enzyme that helps with the digestion of carbohydrates, and it can be elevated in conditions where there is pancreatic injury or inflammation, such as pancreatitis. While liver function tests (LFTs) often evaluate enzymes like AST (Aspartyl transaminase) and ALT (Alanine transaminase), the measurement of serum amylase does not assess liver function directly. Renal function is usually monitored through blood tests that measure blood urea nitrogen (BUN), blood urea, and plasma creatinine. As for measuring cardiac enzyme levels, tests are commonly focused on creatine phosphokinase (CPK) and, in instances of myocardial infarction, troponins.
Laboratory Tests for Pancreatic Function
Blood tests that include amylase or lipase levels to check for pancreatic inflammation.
The Secretin-pancreozymin test, which involves analysis of duodenal contents and can measure amylase among other pancreatic enzymes.
The fecal elastase test, which assesses enzyme levels in the stool to evaluate pancreatic function.
In conclusion, option c) evaluating pancreatic function is the correct interpretation of the role of serum amylase in clinical practice.