What is this test?
This laboratory test is performed on a blood sample to measure the level of Gamma-Glutamyl transferase. Gamma-Glutamyl transferase is an enzyme concentrated in the liver but is also present in gallbladder, spleen, pancreas, and kidneys. It is involved in the transfer of amino acids, glutathione, and leukotriene metabolism.
Why is this test performed?
This test is performed:
- To evaluate the function of liver
- To screen for liver diseases such as hepatitis and cirrhosis caused by alcohol and other substances toxic to the liver
- To determine the cause of elevated alkaline phosphatase levels
- To screen for bile duct issues.
- Which medicines might increase my GTT levels?
- Phenytoin
- Carbamazepine
- Phenobarbital
- NSAIDs
- Antibiotics
- Antifungals
- Antidepressants
- Anticoagulants
- Oral contraceptives
- What will affect my test results?
- Alcohol consumption
- Smoking
- Certain drugs.
- What are the symptoms of a liver disease?
- Jaundice
- Abdominal pain
- Swelling
- Dark-colored urine
- Pale stool color
- Swelling in the legs and ankles
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Itchy skin
- What are the risks of this test?
Collecting blood from a vein is a very easy procedure and pose only minimum risk, including:
- Bruising
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Lightheadedness
.
- What are the risk factors for liver disease?
- Alcohol consumption
- Obesity
- Exposure to hepatitis virus
- Family history of liver disease
- Diabetes
- Tattoos or body-piercing
- Unprotected sex
Normal range: 9-48 units per liter
- Interpretation of test results:
Causes of high gamma-GT levels:
- Alcohol abuse
- Viral hepatitis
- Cirrhosis
- Liver tumor
- Heart failure
- Diabetes
- Pancreatitis
- Metabolic syndrome
- Use of drugs or toxins
- Alcoholic liver disease.