Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase (GGT )

Gamma-glutamyl-transferase (GGT) is an enzyme test that plays a key role in diagnosing liver diseases and monitoring alcohol consumption. Here's a simplified summary of the utility of the GGT test:

• Detection of Alcohol Consumption: GGT is particularly useful for detecting heavy alcohol use in males and can be part of an alcohol screening program. The enzyme level tends to normalize after about three weeks of abstinence, making it a reliable follow-up marker for monitoring alcohol intake.

• Indicator of Liver Disease in Children: GGT is a more sensitive indicator of liver disease in children compared to alkaline phosphatase.

• Liver Cell Injury: GGT is a sensitive marker for liver cell injury and is often correlated with alkaline phosphatase levels to assess liver health.

• Obstructive Jaundice and Liver Metastasis: GGT levels are particularly valuable in cases of obstructive jaundice and metastatic liver infiltration, where it tends to be more sensitive and specific compared to other markers.

• Acute Myocardial Infarction: Although GGT can be elevated in cases of acute myocardial infarction, the reasons are not fully understood. If GGT elevation occurs within the first seven days, it may indicate a liver insult secondary to the heart attack.

• Nonspecific Elevations...