What is the Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase (GGT) Test?
The quantity of gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) in the blood is determined using a GGT test. While GGT is an enzyme present throughout the body, the liver is where it is most frequently found. The circulation may become contaminated with GGT if the liver is destroyed. Elevated levels of GGT in the blood might indicate liver illness or bile duct injury. Bile enters and exits the liver through tubes called bile ducts. The liver produces a fluid called bile. For digestion, it is essential.
- The GGT test by itself does not identify the exact cause of liver disease.
- Typically, it is performed in conjunction with or following other liver function tests, such as the ALP test.
- ALP, a different liver enzyme, helps diagnose bone problems and liver diseases.
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Get A Second OpinionWhat is it used for the Gamma GT Test?
A gamma gt test is used to diagnose the following:
- Liver disease.
- Determine whether liver damage is the result of liver illness or a bone condition.
- Check for blockages in the bile ducts.
- Screen for alcohol use disorder.
What is the need for a GGT Blood Test?
One might need a GGT test if they have symptoms of liver disease. Symptoms include:
- Fatigue.
- Weakness.
- Jaundice.
- Loss of appetite.
- Abdominal pain.
- Abdominal swelling.
- Nausea.
- Vomiting.
You might also need this test if you have abnormal results on an ALP test and other liver function tests.
What happens during a GGT Blood Test?
During a GGT test, a tiny needle will be used by a medical practitioner to draw blood from a vein in your arm. Once the needle has been inserted, a small quantity of blood will be collected into a test tube or vial. As the needle enters or leaves your body, it could sting a little. Often, this takes only a few minutes.
How to prepare for the GGT Blood Test?
It's essential to inform your healthcare professional about any medications or dietary supplements you're taking before the test since many different kinds of supplements and medications can potentially alter your GGT levels. Your doctor might ask you to stop using a drug before the test in specific circumstances. If your doctor instructs you to stop taking medication, stop it.
Your doctor may advise not drinking for at least 24 hours before the test because even small amounts of alcohol can raise GGT levels.
Is there any risk associated with the GGT Test?
There is no risk or danger of getting a blood test. Some people can have some discomfort or bruising where the needle was inserted, but most effects will go away after some time.
What do the findings imply?
If your GGT levels are greater than usual, this might indicate liver damage. One of the following conditions might be causing the damage:
- Hepatitis.
- Cirrhosis.
- Alcohol use disorder.
- Pancreatitis.
- Diabetes.
- Congestive heart failure.
- A side effect of a medication or drug. Some medicines can cause liver damage in some people.
The outcomes are unable to identify the ailment causing your liver impairment. Liver damage increases with increasing GGT levels.
You probably don't have liver disease if your test results indicate low or normal levels of GGT.
The outcomes of an ALP test may also be compared to your findings. Bone diseases can be diagnosed with ALP testing. Your combined findings may indicate one of the following:
- Elevated levels of both ALP and GGT indicate that your symptoms are probably caused by a liver illness rather than a bone issue.
- It is more likely that you have a bone problem if you have high levels of ALP and low or normal GGT.
Speak with your healthcare professional if you have any queries regarding your results.
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Book an AppointmentFrequently Asked Questions
The Gamma GT blood test is a test that measures the quantity of gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) in the blood. While GGT is an enzyme present throughout the body, the liver is where it is most frequently found. The circulation may become contaminated with GGT if the liver is damaged. Elevated levels of GGT in the blood might indicate liver illness or bile duct injury.
High GGT is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) such as coronary heart disease (CHD), stroke, arterial hypertension, heart failure, cardiac arrhythmias etc.
A sickness or illness that is harming your liver may be indicated by a higher-than-normal GGT level in your blood. The precise source of the injury, however, cannot be determined by the GGT test alone. The more GGT is present, the more harm your liver will sustain.
The normal gamma level for adults is 5 to 40 U/L. The normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories.
Yes, elevated blood GGT levels cause advanced fatty liver disease.
Avoid the following food when GGT is high:
- Red meat
- Alcohol
- Fried foods
- Oily foods
The cost of the Gamma GGT Test in India might differ according to the place. The average price of the Gamma GGT Test ranges from R. 160 to Rs. 500.
GGT levels fall after meals, so you may be instructed to fast for at least eight hours before the test. You may also be asked to stop drinking alcohol or taking certain prescription medications beforehand.
The symptoms of high GGT levels are:
- Yellowing skin and eyes.
- Abdominal distension from fluid accumulation.
- Enlarged liver
- Fatigue
- Tiredness
- Feeling unwell
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
Medicover Hospitals provides gamma tests with fast and accurate results.
