Gamma GT Test
500 Kshs | Home Collection Available
Synonyms
y-Glutamyl Transferase (GGT), glutamyl transpeptidase
Purpose
The Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase (GGT) test measures the amount of GGT enzyme in the blood. GGT plays a key role in liver function and bile duct activity. This test is important because elevated GGT levels may indicate liver disease, bile duct obstruction, or alcohol abuse.
Doctors often use this test to differentiate liver conditions from bone disorders when alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels are also elevated.
The test can be performed alongside Liver Function Tests (LFTs), Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP), Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT), Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST), and Bilirubin test.
Patient Preparation
Patient is required to fast (avoid eating and drinking except water) for at least 8 hours before the test, and avoid taking Phenobarbital, birth control pills, or clofibrate.
Samples
1ml with a minimum volume of 0.7ml of Serum or plasma collected in a Gel-barrier, red-top, or green-top tube (lithium heparin). Avoid using EDTA, oxalate, or citrate plasma. Separate plasma or serum from the cells within 45 minutes of sample collection. Preferred storage is at room temperature for up to 14 days.
Reference Range
Male: 0-65IU/L, Female: 0- 60 IU/L
Results Turnaround
Within 24 hours of receipt of samples.
Diseases / Diagnostic indicators
Elevated GGT levels often indicate liver-related conditions such as alcoholic liver disease, hepatitis, cirrhosis, fatty liver, or bile duct obstruction. It may also rise due to chronic alcohol consumption, use of hepatotoxic drugs, or congestive heart failure. GGT is particularly sensitive to bile duct problems and is often used to confirm whether an elevated ALP is due to liver or bone disease.
Some possible outcomes of the test include;
- High GGT levels may suggest liver damage, bile duct obstruction, alcohol abuse, or the use of drugs that affect the liver (e.g., anti-seizure medications or NSAIDs).
- Mildly elevated GGT can occur in obesity, diabetes, or even without apparent disease, especially with chronic alcohol use.
- Normal GGT levels typically indicate no significant liver or bile duct dysfunction.
Persistently high levels may warrant further testing to determine the exact cause and extent of liver involvement. For more on Gamma GT Testing, read this study.