Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase
GGT
Description
"Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase" (GGT) test measures the GGT enzyme, which rises with liver damage, bile duct obstruction, or alcohol use. It’s commonly used alongside other liver tests to investigate symptoms like jaundice, fatigue, or right-sided abdominal discomfort. Elevated GGT levels may indicate liver strain, alcohol-related injury, or bile flow disruption. Doctors rely on this test to pinpoint the cause of enzyme changes and refine treatment decisions. Regular GGT testing helps track recovery and guide lifestyle or medication adjustments.
Test Category
Enzymes
Procedure
Invasive
Sample Type
Blood – Serum
Units
International Units Per Liter
Procedure Category
Blood Draw
Test Group
Complete Liver Group, Basic Liver Group, Gallbladder Group, Gastrointestinal System Group
Test Group Description
Basic Liver Group: This set of tests is fundamental for evaluating liver function and detecting common liver disorders. Complete Liver Group: A thorough array of tests aimed at assessing liver function, providing detailed insights into hepatic health and related conditions. Gallbladder Group: This group of tests evaluates gallbladder function and health, providing insights into digestive well-being and related conditions. Gastrointestinal Health Group: This group assesses different facets of gastrointestinal function and health, providing insights into digestive well-being and related conditions.
Optimal Range
For All Individuals:
Conventional Unit: 10–20 IU/L
SI Unit: Not Applicable
Normal Range
For All Individuals:
Conventional Unit: 5–40 IU/L
SI Unit: Not Applicable
Results That Differ From The Norm (Direct and Indirect Causes)
Increased levels may indicate:
Alcoholism
Cholestasis (Impaired bile flow)
Cirrhosis (Chronic liver damage)
Heart failure (inability of the heart to pump blood effectively)
Hepatitis (Inflammation of the liver)
Liver ischemia (Restricted blood flow to the liver)
Medications (such as hepatotoxic drugs like statins, anticonvulsants, and certain antibiotics)
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (Accumulation of fat in the liver)
Liver cancer
Liver tumor
Lung disease
Pancreatitis (Inflammation of the pancreas)
Pancreatic cancer
Type 2 Diabetes (Metabolic disorder)
Key Reasons For Testing
Liver Function Assessment: GGT testing evaluates liver function and detects liver damage.
Liver Disease Detection: Elevated GGT levels indicate conditions like hepatitis, fatty liver disease, and cirrhosis.
Alcohol-related Liver Damage: GGT identifies damage from alcohol use and associated liver disease.
Bile Duct Obstruction: GGT aids in diagnosing bile duct issues, differentiating from liver disorders.
Cardiovascular Risk: High GGT levels are linked to heart disease risk.
Monitoring Liver Health: GGT tracks liver function changes.
Health Status Conditions It May Be Used To Assess
Currently, this test is not directly associated with any conditions listed on the Health Status page. However, it may be included as part of a broader set of tests linked to specific health conditions.
Some Prominent Medical Labs That May Offer This Test
Please note that this particular test has not been associated with any of the listed prominent medical labs. We recommend enquiring with your private physician or nearest hospital to determine where this specific test can be performed.
References
Important Note
Any medical procedure yielding results outside the norm may be directly or indirectly linked to the conditions outlined on this page. Various factors, including genetics, medication and supplement usage, recent illnesses, pregnancy, pre-test eating, smoking, and stress, can impact the test's outcome. Additionally, factors like false positives, false negatives, inaccurate analyses, and others can influence results.
Reference ranges, which help healthcare professionals interpret medical tests, may vary depending on age, gender, and other factors. They may also differ between laboratories due to variations in instruments and methods used. Optimal ranges are designed for preventive purposes, aiming to identify trends and potential risks early, while normal ranges reflect conventional laboratory values indicating no current disease or pathology. Your healthcare practitioner may have specific reasons for testing that deviate from the usual or may interpret results differently based on individual circumstances. Proper interpretation typically involves considering clinical findings and other diagnostic tests. Hence, it is crucial to provide your healthcare professionals with a comprehensive medical history, consult with them for result interpretation, and follow their guidance for potential re-testing or additional diagnostics.
Disclaimer
This content is provided solely for informative and educational purposes. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice or treatment from a personal physician. Regarding the interpretation of their medical test results and/or specific health questions, it is recommended that all readers and viewers consult their physicians or other qualified health professionals. The publisher is not responsible for any adverse health effects that may result from reading or following the information in this educational content. Before beginning any nutrition, supplement, or lifestyle program, all viewers, especially those taking prescription or over-the-counter medications, should consult their physician or health care practitioner.
Please note that while prominent lab names are included in this content, we cannot guarantee that these labs offer all the tests mentioned. For confirmation, individuals should contact the labs directly or consult their medical practitioners. The information provided reflects general knowledge at the time of publication and may not include recent updates or emerging research. Readers should verify details with qualified professionals to ensure the most up-to-date and accurate guidance.
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