From the Guidelines
The primary purpose of a Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase (GGT) test is to assess liver health and detect potential liver damage or disease.
Key Uses of GGT Test
- The GGT test is used to determine whether an elevated Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) level is of hepatic or non-hepatic origin, as GGT is found in the liver and is a more specific indicator of liver disease than ALP 1.
- It is also used to detect alcoholic liver disease (ALD), as GGT levels are often elevated in individuals with ALD, and is considered a sensitive marker for chronic alcohol misuse 2.
- In addition, the GGT test can be used to monitor liver function in patients with drug-induced liver injury and to detect cholestatic liver disease 3.
- GGT levels can also be used as a biomarker for alcohol use, although it is not specific for alcohol use and should be combined with other lab testing and clinical evaluation 4.
Interpretation of GGT Results
- Elevated GGT levels can indicate liver damage or disease, but can also be influenced by other factors such as body mass index (BMI) and sex 2.
- The sensitivity and specificity of GGT for detecting liver disease can vary depending on the population being tested and the presence of other liver enzymes or biomarkers 2, 4.
- In patients with alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (AATD), repeatedly elevated serum liver tests, including GGT, have been associated with the development of liver disease 5.
From the Research
Purpose of Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase (GGT) Test
The primary purpose of a GGT test is to:
- Indicate liver injury and excessive alcohol consumption 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
- Serve as a marker of oxidative stress and antioxidant inadequacy 7, 8, 9, 10
- Predict the risk of various chronic conditions and diseases, including: + Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease 6 + Vascular and nonvascular diseases 6, 7, 8 + Cardiovascular disease 7, 8, 10 + Diabetes 7, 8, 10 + Metabolic syndrome 7, 8 + Chronic kidney disease 9 + Neoplasia 9 + All-cause mortality 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
Clinical Applications of GGT Test
The GGT test has various clinical applications, including: