Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase (GGT) in Serum/Plasma
This test measures the activity of an enzyme called gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), which helps assess liver function and detect potential liver damage or disease.
["GGT can indicate liver issues or exposure to certain substances."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 95602-9
- Short code
- GABABR Ab Titr Ser CBA IFA
- Synonyms
- GABABR Ab Titr Ser CBA IFA
- Category
- coagulation
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- cba-ifa
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What Is GGT Used For?
GGT is primarily used to evaluate liver health. Elevated levels may suggest conditions like alcohol use, certain medications, or liver diseases such as hepatitis or cirrhosis. It can also help monitor treatment progress or identify underlying liver problems in people with other conditions like bile duct blockages or fatty liver disease.
How Is the Test Performed?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is then sent to a lab for analysis. GGT levels are measured using an enzymatic method, which detects how quickly the enzyme breaks down a chemical substrate.
What Might Affect GGT Levels?
Several factors can influence GGT levels, including alcohol consumption, certain medications (like antibiotics, antifungals, or some pain relievers), liver disease, and genetic factors. Smoking and obesity may also play a role.
When Might You Need This Test?
Your doctor may order a GGT test if you have symptoms like jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), abdominal pain, fatigue, or unexplained weight loss. It’s also often included in routine liver function tests when evaluating liver health or diagnosing conditions like alcohol-related liver disease.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated GGT levels often signal liver stress or damage, but they can also rise due to other factors like alcohol exposure or certain medications. While GGT alone isn’t diagnostic, it’s a useful marker when combined with other liver tests (like ALT or AST) to guide treatment decisions. Persistently high levels may prompt further investigation into liver disease or other systemic conditions.
Short name
GGT Level
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
Can lifestyle changes lower GGT levels?
What if my GGT level is higher than expected?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy