Hyperamylasemia and ovarian carcinoma.

We present a case of advanced ovarian carcinoma associated with high concentrations of serum and urine amylase. Biochemical analysis to elucidate the nature and origin of the hyperamylasemia identified seven amylase isoenzymes, of which five appeared to be distinct from normal salivary and pancreatic amylase. We discuss the nature of amylase isoenzymes produced by malignant tumors.