Home :: Gamma Glutamyl Transpeptidase Gamma Glutamyl Transpeptidase (GGT)Also called gamma glutamyl transpeptidase, gamma glutamyl transferase (GGT) participates in the transfer of amino acids across cellular membranes and, possibly, in glutathione metabolism. The highest concentrations of GGT exist in the renal tubules, but the enzyme also appears in the liver, biliary tract epithelium, pancreas, lymphocytes, brain, and testes. This test is used to measure serum GGT levels. Purpose
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Reference valuesSerum GGT values vary with the assay method used (kinetic or end-point method). Normal levels range from 7 to 48 UIL in males and from 6 to 29 U/L in females Abnormal findingsSerum GGT levels rise in any acute hepatic disease because enzyme production increases in response to hepatocellular injury. Moderate increases occur in acute pancreatitis, renal disease, and prostatic metastases; postoperatively; and in some patients with epilepsy or brain tumors. Levels also increase after alcohol ingestion because of enzyme induction. The sharpest elevations occur in patients with obstructive jaundice and hepatic metastatic infiltrations. GGT levels may also increase 5 to 10 days after acute myocardial infarction, either as a result of tissue granulation and healing or as an indication of the effects of cardiac insufficiency on the liver. Interfering factors
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