Lab

Gamma Glutamyl Transferase

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Gamma Glutamyl Transferase, GGT

  • See Also
  1. Liver Function Test
  2. Liver Function Test Abnormality
  • Pathophysiology
  1. Membrane bound hepatic cell marker
  2. Function
    1. Transfer of Amino Acids across the cellular membrane (via transfer of gamma glutamyl to Amino Acid)
    2. Glutathione (GSH, a antioxidant) synthesis and metabolism
  3. Abnormal Values
    1. GGT elevation suggests cholestasis
    2. Most sensitive, but least specific of all LFTs
      1. GGT is found in the liver, bile ducts and Kidney
  • Labs
  1. Normal: 0-30 U/L
  • Causes
  • Increased (Elevation 3 times normal is significant)
  1. Chronic Alcoholic Hepatitis or other liver disease
  2. Liver neoplasm or metastases
  3. Nephrotic Syndrome
  4. Cholestasis
  5. Pancreatic Carcinoma
  6. Congestive Heart Failure (CHF)
  7. Sepsis
  8. Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)
  9. Medications
    1. Phenytoin
    2. Barbiturates