Gamma-glutamyl Transferase (GGT) Test
Gamma-glutamyl Transferase Test
A Gamma-glutamyl Transferase (GGT) test is a type of blood test used to detect the presence of an enzyme in the body. The presence of this enzyme can indicate the early stages of certain medical conditions, like liver or heart disease.
Preparation
No preparation is needed for this test. It is a simple blood test done at your doctor’s office or at a laboratory.
Procedure
The procedure for a Gamma-glutamyl Transferase test is as follows:
- The nurse or doctor will draw a sample of your blood.
- Your blood sample will be placed in a test tube and sent to a laboratory for analysis.
- The lab will measure the level of Gamma-glutamyl Transferase in your sample.
Types of Gamma-glutamyl Transferase Tests
There are two types of GGT tests:
- The first type measures the activity of the enzyme in your blood sample.
- The second type measures the amount of protein in your sample.
Risks
The risks associated with this test are minimal. You may feel some bruising or discomfort where the needle was inserted in your arm.
Why Is This Test Done?
A Gamma-glutamyl Transferase test is usually done to help diagnose or monitor liver diseases such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, and cancer. It can also be used to help diagnose conditions such as kidney or pancreatic disease, or to monitor your response to certain medications.
When Is a GGT Test Done?
Your doctor may recommend this test if you are experiencing any of the following:
- Abdominal pain
- Unexplained weight loss
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
- Dark urine or discolored stools
- Chronic fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea or vomiting
- Itching
- Irritability or confusion