Gamma-Glutamyltransferase (GGT), Serum
Use
Gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT) is primarily present in kidney, liver, and pancreatic cells. It is the most sensitive enzymatic indicator of liver disease and plays a crucial role in diagnosing and monitoring hepatobiliary disease. It helps ascertain whether observed elevations of alkaline phosphatase are due to skeletal or hepatobiliary disease. Additionally, it serves as a screening test for occult alcoholism and indicates enzyme induction due to drug use such as phenytoin and phenobarbital.
Special Instructions
Patient's age and sex are required when ordering the test. Centrifuge and aliquot serum into a plastic vial within 2 hours of collection.
Limitations
Gamma-glutamyltransferase activity can be induced by certain drugs like phenytoin and phenobarbital, which means elevated levels may not necessarily indicate liver disease unless the drug use is ruled out. GGT levels rise due to alcohol consumption and in the presence of certain neoplasms. Rarely, gammopathy type IgM can cause unreliable results.
New York Approved
Methodology
Automated Analyzer (Clinical Chemistry)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 2324-2
- 2324-2
Result Turnaround Time
1-2 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
0.5 mL
Minimum Volume
0.25 mL
Container
Plastic vial
Collection Instructions
Centrifuge and aliquot serum into a plastic vial within 2 hours of collection.
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis, Gross icterus
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 7 days |
| Refrigerated | 7 days |
| Frozen | 365 days |