Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase (GGT) Test

If you’ve ordered liver function tests, you may immediately think about AST and ALT. However, other enzymes can be measured as well, such as Gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT).

In this article, we’re exploring Gamma-Glutamyltransferase, an enzyme that you may not have considered as a part of your liver panel.

What is Gamma-Glutamyltransferase (GGT)?

This is an enzyme found and produced by the liver. This enzyme is found in low blood levels in a healthy body unless there is a liver disease or the bile ducts are compromised.

GGT interaction with other liver-produced enzymes makes serum levels useful to determine if there is anything to worry about in the liver. Its levels may also become altered when a patient happens to have gallbladder stones or another type of obstruction of the bile duct.

The main reasons why GGT levels are altered include:

• A critical liver condition, such as hepatitis, bile duct obstruction, or liver tumors.
• Other organic conditions, such as heart attacks and strokes.
• Alcohol consumption