GAMMA GLUTAMYL TRANSPEPTIDASE (GGT)
Is a biliary enzyme useful in the diagnosis of obstructive jaundice, intrahepatic cholestasis and pancreatitis. GGT is more responsive to biliary obstruction than are aspartate aminotransferase (AST) (SGOT) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) (SGPT). 1. GGT is increased in hepatoma and carcinoma of the pancreas and useful in the diagnosis of metastatic carcinoma of the liver. Increasing levels in carcinoma patients relate to tumor progression and a dubious outcome.
1. CEA, alkaline phosphatase and GGT together are useful markers for hepatic metastasis from the breast and colon.
2. May be useful in the diagnosis of chronic alcoholic liver disease. Follow-up blood chemistries of serum GGT, AST and ALT levels can distinguish recovering alcoholics who resume drinking from those who do not.
3. Increase in body mass correlates with increased GGT levels.
4. GGT along with MCV is a useful test for alcoholism.
5. GGT is the test of choice for pregnant females who may have cholestasis.
6. GGT levels are elevated in cirrhosis and hepatitis.
7. The transaminases, AST and ALT rise higher in acute viral hepatitis; then GGT.
8. Increased in systemic lupus erythematosus
GGT IS HIGH WHEN
General considerations:
If patient has been on a very low-fat diet for long periods of time then increase fat intake