GAMMA GT

The GGT test is a simple blood test which can measure the level of gamma-glutamyl transferase in the blood. GGT is an enzyme that is predominantly found in the liver, but it can also be found in lesser quantities in the kidneys, spleen, pancreas, heart, brain, and seminal vesicles. This enzyme is involved in the conjugation of molecules containing glutamate with glutamine, which is an important step in the many processes of synthesis and degradation that occur in our body. When the cells in the liver are damaged or inflamed, the liver cells leak GGT into the blood to be measured in a blood test.

In the GGT (gamma-glutamyl transferase) test, the level of gamma-glutamyl transferase enzyme within the blood is assessed, which may suggest possible liver damage or disease. Increased GGT levels may indicate several conditions, including liver inflammation, cirrhosis, liver cancer, or even disease of the bile duct.

The GGT test is usually prescribed in patients with symptoms of liver disease like jaundice, dark urine, pale stools, loss of appetite, fatigue, and nausea. It is also widely used for follow-up of patients with liver disease, to check if the liver is responsive to the treatment.

The GGT test poses no risk to the patient. Nonetheless, it may not be performed accurately with persons who suffer from Gilbert syndrome, a mild liver disorder that affects the breakdown of bilirubin. A few medicines, such as corticosteroids, barbiturates and some antidepressants, can also change GGT levels.

This test measures the concentration of gamma-glutamyl transferase present in the blood. If the person has liver damage or disease, this enzyme's level in the blood will serve as an indicator of the hepatic injury or disease.

The patients who GGT Test should consider taking are:

• Exhibit signs of liver illnesses like jaundice, dark yellow urine, pale coloured stools, loss of appetite, fatigue, nausea, or vomiting.
• Suffer from a history of liver related diseases or even liver cancer.
• Have had exposure towards hepatitis or any other infection relating to the liver.
• Have been diagnosed with liver problems and are currently under treatment to keep track of their liver health.
• Do have a genetic family background of liver disease.

Having GGT test done can be beneficial towards diagnosing liver injury or dysfunction. The benefit of this test includes:

• GGT enables in early detection and treatment of liver problems.
• GGT enables one to keep track of the treatment effectiveness in a patient who is suffering from liver problems.
• GGT can enable a medical officer to pinpoint a medication or any toxic substance that might have caused damage to the liver.
• GGT helps to evaluate liver activity in patients suffering from any other illness.

The GGT test can diagnose or monitor various liver conditions including:

• Liver Injury or damage (Hepatitis).
• Bile duct cancer
• Liver cirrhosis
• Bile duct neoplasm.
• Disease of pancreas

For specific tests, the patient will be prepared by:

• Complete fasting 8-12 hours prior to the procedure.
• Report to the physician any drugs or vitamins he is using.
• Discontinue drugs which may alter the levels of GGT.

Prerequisites: None

Eligibility: All patients can undergo testing and screening for GGT; however, infants or small children might need a different approach in testing.

Procedure for taking the test:

• Blood will be primarily drawn from a patient’s arm using the venipuncture technique.
• The blood specimen(s) will then be assessed at a designated lab.

Caution before the test: Patients need to sign and document any relevant information regarding health issues or allergies that may cause problems with interpreting GGT examination results.