The GGT test (gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase) primarily measures the amount of GGT enzyme in your blood. GGT works as a transport molecule and assists in moving other molecules around your body. Its role is imperative in helping the liver absorb drugs and other toxins. Though GGT is mainly found in the liver, it can also be present in the gallbladder, spleen, pancreas, and kidneys. GGT levels are beyond the normal range when your liver is damaged. Your doctor refers to the GGT blood test along with other tests, mainly alkaline phosphatase (ALP) to check the possibility of liver damage.
The cost of the GGT test is Rs. 120-Rs.250. The price may vary depending on your location.
Please check the price of the GGT test in Delhi/NCR, your nearby centers and other details.
Test Summary
| Also known as | Gamma-Glutamyl Transpeptidase, GGTP, Gamma-GT, GTP |
| Test Type | Blood |
| GGT test includes | To check how well is your liver performing    |
| Preparation | No special preparation is required |
| Reporting | Within 24 hrs |
| Test price | The cost of the GGT test is Rs. 120-Rs.250. The price may vary depending on your location. |
| Also included in | Health Insurance Plans |
| Related tests | Complete Blood Count, SGOT, SGPT, Ultrasound, Bilirubin Test, Albumin, Total Protein |
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The Purpose of the GGT Test
The prime purposes of the GGT test are:
- To diagnose liver disease
- To find out if your liver is damaged due to liver disease or a bone disorder
- To check for blockages in the bile ducts
- To screen or monitor alcoholic liver diseases
Why is the GGT Test Done?
Your liver plays an important role in producing proteins in your body and excreting waste products from your body. The liver also produces bile, a substance that supports your body in processing fats.
Your doctor will recommend a GGT test if he suspects your liver is damaged or if you have liver disease, especially due to alcohol abuse. The GGT test indicates how much of your liver is damaged and which disease you are suffering from. This damage can be due to excessive use of alcohol or other toxic substances, including drugs or poisons.
The symptoms of liver problems include:
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fatigue or lack of energy
- Lower abdominal pain
- Yellow skin and eyes called jaundice
- Dark-colored urine
- Light-colored stool
- Itchy skin
If you are trying to stay away from alcohol, your doctor will refer to this test to check how well you are responding to the treatment program. This test monitors the levels of GGT for people who are suffering from alcoholic hepatitis.
GGT Test Preparation
Sometimes, your doctor may give you advice for fasting before the test. If you are taking certain medications, inform the doctor. Don’t drink alcohol within 24 hours of the test; it may hamper your results.
How is the GGT test conducted?
You need to visit a nearby hospital or lab center for this test. A deft nurse or technician is used to collect your blood from your vein. The healthcare provider ties an elastic band around your arm to identify your vein properly. Then, by inserting a needle, the person draws your blood sample and collects it in a vial for further analysis. You may feel a sharp pain when the needle is inserted.
What do the Results Mean?
You may get the results either on the same day or the next day. The GGT normal range is 9–48 units per liter (U/L). Normal values can vary depending on your age and sex.
Though the GGT test helps you in diagnosing liver disease, it can’t identify the cause. If your GGT level is beyond the normal value, you may need more tests for further analysis. Generally, the higher the GGT level indicates liver disease.
Some of the health conditions that may increase your GGT value are
- Excessive use of alcohol
- Chronic viral hepatitis
- Inadequate blood flow to the liver
- Liver tumor
- Cirrhosis or scarred liver
- Overuse of certain drugs or other toxins
- Heart failure
- Diabetes
- Pancreatitis
- Fatty liver disease
GGT is often tested along with alkaline phosphatase (ALP). If the levels of both ALP and GGT are elevated, then your doctor suspects you may either have liver problems or you have issues with the bile duct. If GGT is normal and ALP is elevated, this could imply some bone diseases. Sometimes, your doctor may refer to this test to rule out certain health conditions.
FAQs
What are the risks of the GGT test?
Since this is a blood test, hence the risks are minimal. There could be a chance of minimal bleeding at the inserted site. Sometimes, you may get a bruise under your skin which will go away automatically within two or three days. In rare scenarios, an infection may occur.
Is the GGT test always appropriate?
GGT is a highly sensitive test. If your doctor thinks your GGT level can be elevated due to the usage of certain medications, he may again refer you for the test. Barbiturates, phenobarbital, and some nonprescription drugs can uplift the levels of GGT in your body. In women, GGT levels may increase with age.
What are the other tests that you need to do along with GGT?
Your healthcare provider may refer to other liver function tests along with the GGT test. These tests could be
1. Alanine aminotransferase or ALT
2. Aspartate aminotransferase or AST
3. Lactic dehydrogenase or LDH
How do I reduce my GGT levels?
1. Diet modifications are highly recommended. Increase your vitamin D intake as vitamin D reduces liver damage
2. Do exercise regularly
3. Go for regular preventive health checkups
What medications will elevate GGT levels?
GGT levels may be elevated due to medications, such as carbamazepine, cimetidine, furosemide, heparin, isotretinoin, methotrexate, oral contraceptives, phenobarbital, phenytoin, and valproic acid.
What does the GGT level over 100 mean?
This indicates your liver is not functioning and you may need some further tests for diagnosis.
