GGTP Test

The GGTP test checks the health of your liver by measuring the amount of the enzyme, Gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGTP) in your blood. It is used to diagnose liver disease or bile duct obstructions in conjunction with other liver tests such as ALT, ASP, ALP and bilirubin. Most of these tests are ordered in a liver panel which is a series of tests performed to check for liver damage. Such a test is usually ordered in case of alcoholism, jaundice, pancreatitis or any tumors or cirrhosis.

Mostly, a GGTP is ordered on observing high levels of ALP (alkaline phosphatase). If GGTP is also high, it would indicate that the issue is indeed of the liver else, if only ALP is high, the issue is most probably bone disease.

It is recommended to fast for 8 hours and also avoid alcohol and certain medications that may affect the results of the test. Consuming alcohol within 24 hours of the test can easily affect the results. It is better to even avoid any products that may contain alcohol like mouthwashes and cough medication. Amongst medications, it is advised to avoid Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), which includes several medicines like paracetamol, naproxen and aspirin that people tend to use OTC (over-the-counter). Smoking should also be avoided for as long as possible before the test.

The liver is an important organ that helps in fat and sugar metabolism and the production of protein and blood clotting factors. Symptoms that indicate liver damage include:

• Reduced appetite or weight loss
• Confusion
• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Abdominal pains/ swelling
• Bleeding
• Yellowing of the skin as in jaundice
• Dark urine
• Light coloured faeces
• Itchiness

Higher GGT levels indicate a greater risk to the liver. High GGT could be because of alcoholism, viral hepatitis, lack of blood flow to the liver, liver tumour (any indications of carcinoma) or cirrhosis, heart failure, diabetes and other similar conditions. Excessive smoking and coffee intake could also lead to spikes in GGTP.

The procedure for the GGTP test is much the same as any lab test. Your blood will be drawn using a syringe, preferably from your arm, close to the elbow. The result should be available in 24 hours. Your medical practitioner can easily help you interpret results. Values range from 3.0 - 28.7 IU/L in females, and 3.3 - 35.0 IU/L in males. Values are generally higher in men than in women. Remember that the GGTP test is an extremely sensitive test and you need not panic on seeing high values. Usually, a second confirmatory test is taken to avoid misguided diagnosis.