Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase (GGT) Blood Test

Also Known As:

GGTP, Gamma-GT Test, Gamma-Glutamyl Transpeptidase, and GTP test

GGT, or Gamma-Glutamyl Transpeptidase, is a crucial enzyme tested in blood panels to assess liver function and bile duct integrity. The GGT blood test is commonly ordered when liver dysfunction, alcohol abuse, or biliary obstruction is suspected, offering valuable insight into metabolic and hepatobiliary health.

Purpose of the GGT Blood Test

The GGT test (Gamma-Glutamyl Transpeptidase) evaluates liver health by measuring the presence of the GGT enzyme in the bloodstream. Elevated GGT levels may indicate liver cell damage, bile duct obstruction, or alcohol-related liver disease. This test is frequently used alongside other liver function tests to assess hepatocellular injury, track recovery from alcohol use disorder, and screen for conditions like hepatitis, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), and metabolic syndrome.

What Does the GGT Test Measure?

The GGT blood test measures the concentration of gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase, an enzyme primarily found in the liver, bile ducts, and pancreas. High GGT enzyme levels suggest impaired liver function or bile duct obstruction but are not diagnostic on their own.

An elevated GGT alone may not be enough to diagnose liver problems, as it could also be caused by problems in the bile duct and bone disease. Therefore, additional lab tests, like the bilirubin test, albumin blood test, and other liver function tests, might be requested by your healthcare provider.

Who Should Take a GGT Lab Test?

Individuals at risk for liver damage—including those with obesity, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, or chronic alcohol consumption—should include the GGT test in their routine health screening.

Because liver dysfunction often remains asymptomatic in early stages, the GGT blood test can detect abnormalities before symptoms arise. It is frequently included in the hepatic function panel.

On the other hand, your doctor will most likely order the test if you observe symptoms of liver problems such as the following.

• Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)
• Swollen and painful abdomen
• Itchy and easily bruised skin
• Swollen legs and ankle
• Nausea or vomiting
• Poor appetite
• Dark urine
• Pale stool
• Fatigue

GGT Blood Work Preparation

For accurate results, fasting for 8 to 12 hours is required before a GGT test, as enzyme levels drop post-meal.

You may also be instructed to avoid:

• Alcohol (can falsely elevate GGT)

• Certain medications like phenytoin, phenobarbital, or oral contraceptives

• Supplements affecting lipid metabolism or liver enzymes

A blood sample will be collected via venipuncture and sent for laboratory analysis.

GGT Test Results

The test value for GGT should not exceed 65 IU/L for males and 60 IU/L for females. Otherwise, it is considered abnormal.

An increased gamma-glutamyl transferase suggests liver problems linked to chronic illnesses such as liver disease, hepatic cancer, and cholestasis during pregnancy.

To further assess your liver function, your doctor may run other tests, such as alkaline phosphatase (ALP), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) blood tests.

Where Can I Get a GGT Blood Test Done Near Me?

You can take the Gamma GT blood test by following these steps.

Step 1: Go to our website and search for the gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) blood test. Once you order the test, you can download the lab test order, which serves as your doctor’s order for your lab work.

Step 2: Choose a partner medical center using our lab locator.

Step 3: Visit the laboratory you chose to have your blood collected.

Step 4: Expect the lab test results within 2-10 business days in your Personalabs account.

For an exact turnaround time for results, please contact us at 1-888-438-5227. We will contact the lab of your choice (Quest Diagnostics or LabCorp) as turnaround times vary depending on testing location or lab testing provider.