Medical knowledge, Patient Education
Gamma-Glutamyl Transpeptidase Test
Why am I having this test?
A gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGTP) test, also known as gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) test, may be used to check for liver or gallbladder disease. It can also be used to monitor alcohol use.
What is being tested?
This test measures the amount of GGTP in your blood. GGTP is an enzyme that is found in many organs, but the highest amount is found in the liver. The amount in your blood can increase if you have liver damage or disease. Drinking alcohol and having certain other diseases can also cause increased levels of GGTP.
What kind of sample is taken?
A blood sample is required for this test. It is usually collected by inserting a needle into a blood vessel.
How do I prepare for this test?
-
Do not eat or drink anything other than water for 8 hours before the test or as told by your health care provider.
-
Do not drink alcohol for 24 hours before the test or as told by your health care provider.
Tell a health care provider about:
-
All medicines you are taking, including vitamins, herbs, eye drops, creams, and over-the-counter medicines.
-
Whether you are a smoker.
-
Any medical conditions you have.
How are the results reported?
-
Male and female older than 45 years: 8–38 units/L.
-
Female younger than 45 years: 5–27 units/L.
-
Child: 0–23 units/L.
-
Infant: 5–85 units/L.
-
Newborn:
-
Premature: 0–140 units/L.
-
1–3 days: 56–233 units/L.
-
4–21 days: 0–130 units/L.
-
What do the results mean?
-
Use of alcohol.
-
Health conditions, such as:
-
Liver disease or damage.
-
A blocked bile duct or gallbladder problem.
-
Inflammation of the pancreas.
-
Cancer of the liver, breast, or lung.
-
Heart disease.
-
Diabetes.
-
Talk with your health care provider about what your results mean.
Questions to ask your health care provider
-
When will my results be ready?
-
How will I get my results?
-
What are my treatment options?
-
What other tests do I need?
-
What are my next steps?
Summary
-
This test measures the amount of gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGTP) in your blood. GGTP is an enzyme that is found in many organs, but the highest amount is found in the liver.
-
You may have this test to check for liver or gallbladder disease or to monitor alcohol use.
-
Talk with your health care provider about what your results mean.
This information is not intended to replace advice given to you by your health care provider. Make sure you discuss any questions you have with your health care provider.
