Gamma Glutamyl Transferase is an enzyme located on the outer surface of cells, playing an important role in metabolism and regulating cellular functions. GGT enzyme, which is found in high amounts especially in cells in the liver, pancreas and bile ducts, is also found in varying amounts in various tissues. In addition, since it is effective in the glutathione mechanism, it is also effective in balancing oxidative stress and removing toxins.
What is GGT (Gamma Glutamyl Transferase)?
Gamma Glutamyl Transferase, abbreviated as GGT, is an enzyme that mediates the transport of amino acids such as glutamic acid and cystine between cells. Levels of gamma glutamyl transferase, which is found in various cells in the body, primarily in the liver and bile, can be used as a marker for medical conditions. Low or high GGT levels can be associated with many health problems such as viral hepatitis and bile duct obstruction. For this reason, the doctor may request the patient to have a GGT test when diagnosing some diseases.
Gamma Glutamyl Transferase Test
The test used to measure the levels of gamma glutamyl transferase in the blood is called the GGT test. GGT test is performed in a laboratory environment after a blood sample is taken and each laboratory has a reference value. GGT test can be used together with liver function tests and kidney function tests to evaluate the health status of the person. GGT levels are not sufficient to make a diagnosis based on this test result alone; other clinical and laboratory findings are often taken into account.
GGT Elevation and Symptoms
High levels of gamma glutamyl transferase usually cause symptoms related to the kidneys, liver and gallbladder. Symptoms of elevated GGT include:
• Liver Problems: High GGT levels can be an indicator of liver diseases. Symptoms of liver problems include jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), abdominal pain, loss of appetite, fatigue, and weight loss.
• Bile Tract Problems: High GGT levels are seen in bile duct obstructions or gallbladder diseases. These conditions can lead to symptoms such as jaundice, abdominal pain and weight loss.
• Alcohol Use: If increased GGT levels are caused by chronic alcohol consumption, symptoms such as irregular sleep, depression, memory loss and social problems may be observed.
• Other Health Problems: High GGT levels may also be associated with other health problems such as diabetes, obesity, pancreatic diseases and risk of cardiovascular disease.
GGT Low and Symptoms
Since low gamma glutamyl transferase does not usually cause symptoms, it is a condition that is noticed after laboratory testing. Although rare, symptoms of low GGT may occur as follows:
• Malnutrition: In cases of protein deficiency or malnutrition, GGT levels may decrease due to decreased protein production in the body.
• Liver Problems: In rare cases, GGT levels may decrease in cases of severe liver damage or liver failure.
• Genetic Factors: Some people may have low GGT levels and this may be due to genetic factors.
• Medications: Some medications can lower GGT levels. Therefore, it should be considered that low GGT levels may be a side effect.
What should be the normal value of GGT?
The normal value of GGT (Gamma Glutamyl Transferase) may vary depending on laboratories and clinical standards of countries. But there are generally different reference ranges for men and women. Additionally, normal values vary depending on age, gender and the measurement method used by the laboratory. Reference ranges typically used in many laboratories are:
• Normal GGT Value for Men: 0-51 IU/L (International Units/Litre)
• Normal GGT Value for Women: 0-33 IU/L (International Units/Litre)
Normally, GGT values should fall within these reference ranges, but values may vary depending on the person’s health status, age, gender, and other factors.
How to Reduce GGT Value?
To reduce GGT (Gamma Glutamyl Transferase) levels, it is important to first identify the underlying cause. GGT levels are often associated with liver or biliary tract problems. Therefore, it is important to follow the treatment plan recommended by the healthcare professional and make recommended lifestyle changes. Limiting or quitting alcohol consumption, adopting a healthy diet, and exercising are factors that can lower GGT levels. However, it is important to remember that treatment to lower GGT levels depends on the specific individual’s health condition and should be done under the guidance of a doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gamma Glutamyl Transferase
Questions about the enzyme gamma glutamyl transferase generally concern its levels in the blood and how high or low levels affect it. Thus, the person can evaluate his health status, take precautions when necessary or consult a doctor. Some frequently asked questions about gamma glutamyl transferase can be answered as follows:
How is the GGT test done?
GGT (Gamma Glutamyl Transferase) testing is done using a blood sample in a laboratory setting. The blood sample is usually taken from a vein on the inside of the arm. The sample is collected by laboratory technicians or healthcare professionals and placed in special test tubes. The blood sample is then analyzed in the laboratory and GGT levels are measured. The results of this test are used to determine whether GGT levels are within the normal range and play an important role in diagnosing liver or biliary tract diseases.
How should I interpret GGT levels?
To interpret GGT (Gamma Glutamyl Transferase) levels, you must first consider the normal reference ranges established by the laboratory. If your GGT level is within this range, there is usually nothing to worry about. However, if the levels are high, this may indicate liver, bile duct or other health problems. High GGT levels are only a marker and other clinical and laboratory evaluations may be required to determine the underlying cause. Therefore, it is important to consult a healthcare professional in case of any abnormality.
What are the factors that affect GGT levels?
Factors that affect GGT (Gamma Glutamyl Transferase) levels may include: alcohol consumption (high alcohol consumption can increase GGT levels), certain medications (for example, epilepsy medications and medications such as aspirin can affect GGT levels), obesity, liver and biliary tract diseases, alcohol abuse use, smoking, age (GGT levels may increase with age), genetic factors, and some other health conditions. These factors can affect GGT levels and should be taken into account in interpreting the results.
What conditions might high GGT levels indicate?
High GGT (Gamma Glutamyl Transferase) levels may indicate the following conditions:
• Liver Damage: Liver damage or liver diseases can cause elevated GGT levels.
• Bile Duct Problems: Bile duct obstructions or biliary tract diseases may lead to increased GGT levels.
• Alcohol Abuse: Chronic alcohol consumption can cause GGT levels to rise and therefore indicate alcohol abuse.
• Medications: Some medications can increase GGT levels.
• Other Health Problems: High GGT levels may also be associated with other health problems such as diabetes, obesity, pancreatic diseases, and risk of cardiovascular disease. High GGT levels can often be a sign of underlying health problems and therefore need further evaluation.
What conditions might low GGT levels indicate?
Low GGT (Gamma Glutamyl Transferase) levels are not generally considered indicative of a specific disease. However, some possible causes may be: low GGT levels in cases of protein deficiency or malnutrition, rarely in cases of severe liver damage or liver failure. Additionally, some medications can also lower GGT levels. Low GGT levels usually do not cause any specific symptoms and medical evaluation may be needed to determine the underlying cause.
