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Contents of this page: | |
Alternative names
Gamma-GT; GGTP; GGTDefinition Return to top
A test that measures the amount of the enzyme GGT in the blood.How the test is performed Return to top
Adult or child:How to prepare for the test Return to top
The health care provider may advise you to withhold drugs that can affect the test (see special considerations).How the test will feel Return to top
When the needle is inserted to draw blood, some people feel moderate pain, while others feel only a prick or stinging sensation. Afterward, there may be some throbbing.Why the test is performed Return to top
This test is used to detect diseases of the liver, bile ducts, and kidney; and to differentiate liver or bile duct (hepatobiliary) disorders from bone disease.
GGT participates in the transfer of amino acids across the cellular membrane and in glutathione metabolism. High concentrations are found in the liver, bile ducts, and the kidney.
GGT is measured in combination with other tests. In particular, ALP is increased in hepatobiliary disease and bone disease. GGT is elevated in hepatobiliary disease, but not in bone disease. So, a patient with an elevated ALP and a normal GGT probably has bone disease, not hepatobiliary disease.
Normal Values Return to top
The normal range is 0 to 51 IU/L.What abnormal results mean Return to top
Greater-than-normal levels may indicate:What the risks are Return to top
Special considerations Return to top
Drugs that can increase GGT levels include alcohol, phenytoin, and phenobarbital.
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Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |