GAMMA-GLUTAMYL TRANSFERASE

GAMMA-GLUTAMYL TRANSFERASE - GGT

The gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) blood test detects or measures the level of the enzyme GGT in the blood.

WHY SHOULD I GET TESTED?

Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase (GGT) is an enzyme found in high level in the tissues, liver, kidney, pancreas, heart, and brain. This test detects the diseases of the liver or bile ducts.

WHEN SHOULD I GET TESTED?

When you have symptoms of a liver or bile duct disorder or as follow up when you have an increased ALP level.

TEST PREPARATION:

Due to GGT levels falling after meals, fast (nothing to eat or drink except water) for at least 8 hours prior to the test. Do not consume alcohol and certain prescription medications (if instructed to do so).

Why do I need this test?
✔GGT is an enzyme found in a high level in the liver, kidney, pancreas, heart, and brain. Also, a small amount can be found in other tissues. An enzyme is a protein that causes a specific chemical change in the body.
✔This test is done to detect diseases of the liver or bile ducts. Also, done with other tests (for example the ALT, AST, ALP, and bilirubin tests) to determine the difference between liver or bile duct disorders and bone disease.
✔It might be done to screen for, or monitor, alcohol use.