A gamma-glutamyl transferase （The (GGT) test determines the amount of GGT in the blood.GGT is an enzyme that occurs throughout the body, but primarily in the liver. If the liver is damaged, GGT can end up in the bloodstream. Increased GGT levels in the blood can be a symptom of liver disease or damage to the bile ducts. The bile ducts are tubes that bring bile to the liver. Bile is a fluid produced by the liver. It is essential for digestion.
The GGT test cannot diagnose a specific basis for liver disease. That is why it is usually done in combination with or after other liver function tests, usually the alkaline phosphatase (ALP) test. ALP is again a picture of liver enzymes. It is often used to diagnose bone and liver disorders.
Other names: gamma-glutamyl Perspeptidase, GGTP, gamma-GT, and GTP.
What is it used for?
The GGT test is the most used test.
- It assists in liver damage.
- Tests for liver damage due to liver disease or bone damage.
- Check for bile duct obstruction
- Screen or check for alcohol disorders
Why is a GGT test needed?
A GGT test may be needed if there are signs of liver disease. Signs may include
- Fatigue
- Weakness
- Yellow und, a condition in which your skin and eyes turn yellow
- decreased appetite
- Abdominal pain or swelling.
- Nausea and vomiting
This test may also be required if you have an abnormal result on the ALP test and/or other liver function tests.
What happens during the GGT test?
The physician takes blood from a vein in your arm with a small needle. After the needle is inserted, a small amount of blood is collected in a test tube or vial. You will feel some pressure as the needle goes in and out. This usually takes less than 5 minutes.
Do I need to prepare for the test?
No special preparation is required for the GGT test.
Are there any risks associated with the GGT test?
There are no sufficient risks associated with blood testing. The area where the needle is inserted can be slightly sore and bruised, but most signs disappear quickly.
What do the results mean?
A higher than normal GGT level may be a symptom of liver damage. Damage can be caused by any of the following criteria
- Hepatitis
- Cirrhosis of the liver
- Inappropriate use of alcohol
- Pancreatitis
- Diabetes mellitus
- Chronic
- Product Side Effects. Some medications can cause liver damage in some individuals.
Results cannot indicate where liver damage is located. In general: the higher the GGT, the higher the degree of liver damage.
If the result shows that the GGT is low or that there is a normal GGT, it probably means that there is no liver disease.
It is still possible to compare the results with the results of the ALP test; the ALP test can help diagnose bone disorders. Together you can indicate one of the correct disorders:
- High ALP and increased GGT mean that your symptoms are probably related to liver disease, not liver disease.
- High ALP and low GGT or normal GGT means that you likely have a bone condition.
If you have questions about your results, consult your health care provider.
Is there anything else I should know about the GGT test?
In addition to the ALP test, your physician may order liver function tests in combination with or after the GGT test. These include
- ALT Alanine Aminotransferase
- Aspartate aminotransferase or AST
- lactate dehydrogenase, or LDH & lt; pran & gt; The results have no chance to tell what liver damage causes any function. In general: the higher the GGT level, the higher the liver damage.
