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e liver and plays a critical role in regulating the gamma- glutamyl cycle. It helps in the degradation of glutathione in the body. GGT also plays a role in xenobiotic detoxification in the body. In addition, it aids in the transmission of amino acids. It is why GGT is found in the body’s cell membranes of different tissues. One can discover
GGT in the kidneys, bile duct, liver, brain, heart, and other body parts. Since GGT is primarily present in the liver, its quantity should not be high in the bloodstream. When the amount of GGT rises in the bloodstream, it signifies an ailing liver. It is also an indication of damage to the bile duct. When a person shows symptoms of any liver disease, doctors need to know the GGT levels in the body. To understand the current levels in the body, doctors rely on GGT test reports. The GGT test alone cannot denote the exact cause of liver disease. This is why the GGT test is often taken with other liver tests like the ALP (Alkaline Phosphatase) test. Read on to know more about the GGT test and when to go for it.

Who Should Get a Gamma Glutamyl Transferase (GGT/GGTP) Test?

Anyone showing signs of liver disease should opt for GGT/GGTP test. People with an ailment in the bile duct should also undergo a GGT test. Some people have hereditary liver diseases or ailments in the bile duct. Such people require a GGT/GGTP test at frequent intervals. Some people opt for an ALP test on a doctor’s advice. If the ALP test reports aren’t normal, you can be asked by the doctor to take a GGT test. How to know if you have a liver-
related disease? Well, your body will show some symptoms if the liver gets damaged. Similarly, there are bodily symptoms of damage to the bile duct. Some symptoms of liver
diseases that require you to take a GGT test are as follows:

• Excessive fatigue
• Excessive weakness
• Jaundice symptoms
• Decreased appetite
• Pain in the abdomen region
• Swelling in the abdomen region
• Nausea
• Vomiting

Why Get Tested for Gamma Glutamyl Transferase (GGT/GGTP)?

As discussed above, you need to know the current GGT level in your body to identify any liver disease. If there is an ailment in the bile duct of the body, it can be determined via the GGT level. Sometimes, the ALP test result cannot decide whether you have liver disease or bone disease. When someone has issues with the liver or the bile duct, ALP and GGT levels become abnormal. If only ALP levels are abnormal, you might be having a bone disease. GGT test is also taken together with tests like AST, ALT, and bilirubin direct tests. If liver disease is overlooked for a long, there can be repercussions. For the same rationale, one
should get tested for GGT levels after showing symptoms of liver disease.

When Get Tested for Gamma Glutamyl Transferase (GGT/GGTP)?

If you are showing any signs of liver disease, immediately opt for a GGT test. You also need a GGT test if you have started drinking alcohol heavily. Approximately 75% of alcohol consumers show high levels of GGT in the body. People suffering from liver disease need to take a GGT test every quarter or six months. If you show any signs of liver scarring or inflammation, you need to get a GGT test. Healthy people can also opt for a GGT test yearly
to monitor their GGT levels.

Sample Required

As discussed above, the GGT test determines the level of GGTP in the bloodstream. To conduct the test, lab technicians need a blood sample of the patient. The lab technician will insert a syringe in your vein puncture to collect a blood sample. Once a sufficient amount of blood is collected in a test tube, lab technicians can determine the GGT levels.

Is Fasting Required Before a Gamma Glutamyl Transferase (GGT/GGTP) Test?

Several tests require patients to fast or remain on a light diet. GGT levels are very sensitive and can increase due to certain medications. Also, GGT levels may rise if the person consumes alcohol before the test. Therefore, one should not consume alcohol for at least a day before the GGT test. Doctors also ask patients to fast for 7-8 hours before taking a GGT test. The doctor may also ask you to stop certain medications before taking a GGT test. It is
better to consult your doctor before taking a GGT/GGTP test.

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