Also Known As:
GGTP, Gamma-GT Test, Gamma-Glutamyl Transpeptidase, and GTP test
Purpose of the GGT Blood Test
A gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) blood test assesses liver health and detects liver, bile duct, and bone disease. In some cases, it is also used to monitor alcohol consumption and substance abuse as part of rehabilitation or treatment. Elevated levels of this enzyme can signal liver injury or other underlying pathology, particularly when linked with conditions such as alcoholic hepatitis, hepatitis, steatohepatitis, or metabolic syndrome.
What Does the GGT Test Measure?
The gamma GT test screens for gamma-glutamyl transferase – a type of enzyme that could suggest liver problems if found in high amounts.
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?
People who are obese, have type 2 diabetes, and drink alcohol heavily, should consider taking a GGT blood test as part of their annual checkup.
Liver problems don’t often show early signs and can only be detected through regular checkups and testing before developing complications. For this reason, it is typically run as part or along with 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
As GGT levels decrease after a meal, fasting for at least eight hours is necessary before your blood test. Venipuncture will be used to draw a blood sample. You may also be advised to avoid alcohol, specific medications (such as phenytoin, phenobarbital, or birth control), and certain foods or vitamins that affect lipid and protein metabolism. Fasting ensures a clearer picture of your liver’s condition and metabolic state.
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.
