Although it is found in different organs, the rate of Gamma Glutamyl Transferase enzyme, which gives information about the health status of this organ, is seen with the abbreviation GGT in the blood analysis. Let’s examine the curious questions such as what is Gamma Glutamyl Transferase GGT and what does its low and high mean in all details.
In order for our body to function in a healthy way, enzymes are constantly produced by our liver. One of these enzymes is Gamma Glutamyl Transferase. Although this enzyme, which we see with the abbreviation GGT in blood test results, is found in different organs, because it is concentrated in the liver Its height and lowness give information about the working status of this organ.
The Gamma Glutamyl Transferase GGT value is extremely important because it is found inside the cell under normal conditions. However, if there is a health problem, it goes out of the cell and mixes with the blood, and the blood test results show a very high value. It can be a precursor to many different diseases. What is Gamma Glutamyl Transferase GGT, what does its low and high mean, how to reduce it Let’s take a look at the frequently asked questions in detail.
First of all, what is Gamma Glutamyl Transferase GGT?
Gamma Glutamyl Transferase is a type of enzyme that is produced by the liver and is concentrated there, but is also found to a certain extent in the gallbladder and pancreas. This enzyme, which we see with the abbreviation GGT in blood test results, It is a kind of catalyst that allows the body to perform its daily functions in a healthy way.
Like many enzymes in our body, Gamma Glutamyl Transferase is actually located inside the cell. However when there is any damage to the cells It mixes with the blood and this causes the GGT value to be high in the blood test results. The GGT value gives information about the health status of the liver, pancreas and gallbladder.
Why and how is the Gamma Glutamyl Transferase GGT test done?
There is no specific test called the Gamma Glutamyl Transferase GGT test. During the complete blood count test It is one of the measured values if your physician wishes. In general, the GGT value is measured when any problem in the liver or gallbladder is suspected. Along with the GGT value, different enzymes such as ALP, ALT, AST, LDH are also measured to reach the most accurate result. Some of the situations where Gamma Glutamyl Transferase GGT measurement is desired are as follows;
- Diagnosis and monitoring of liver diseases
- Suspicion of obstruction in the bile ducts
- Identifying the cause of liver damage
- Investigation of drug use effects and side effects
- Disorders with symptoms such as loss of appetite, abnormal weight loss, abnormal stools and urine, skin problems
What should be the ideal Gamma Glutamyl Transferase GGT value?
The ideal Gamma Glutamyl Transferase GGT value may vary according to the age, gender and health status of the person. However, to talk about an average rate, the ideal GGT value in the range of 0 – 45 U / L in adult females, in the range of 0 – 65 U / L in adult men should be. A maximum of 22 U/L is considered normal in newborns and young infants.
What does low Gamma Glutamyl Transferase GGT mean?
Although it is a subject of curiosity by users, Gamma Glutamyl Transferase is actually There is no such thing as low GGT. In healthy people, the value should be 0. Because this enzyme is inside the cell under normal conditions and does not mix with the blood if there is no discomfort.
What does high Gamma Glutamyl Transferase GGT mean?
GGT value seen above 45 U / L in adult women and over 65 U / L in adult men in blood test results, It is called GGT elevation. If alcohol has been consumed within 24 hours before the blood test, this value will definitely be high.
Why does GGT rise, which can be a harbinger of many diseases?
- acute liver inflammation
- chronic liver inflammation
- Heavy alcohol use
- cirrhosis of the liver
- liver cyst
- liver cancer
- gallbladder stone
- Obstruction in the gallbladder ducts
- acute pancreatitis
- chronic pancreatitis
- Diabetes
- Heart failure
- Side effects related to the drug used
Here are some of the disorders and diseases that cause Gamma Glutamyl Transferase GGT elevation. As can be seen from the list, the GGT value is directly liver, pancreas and gall bladder It is a related enzyme. In cases where it is high, your doctor suspects the health status of these organs.
So how to lower Gamma Glutamyl Transferase GGT?
When your Gamma Glutamyl Transferase GGT value is seen to be high in blood test results First of all, the disease or disease that causes this condition is diagnosed. You may also be asked to give different blood samples or urinalysis for the most accurate diagnosis. After the diagnosis of the disease, the most accurate treatment method will be applied by your doctor.
It is possible to lower your GGT value by changing your habits:
- Limit alcohol consumption.
- Avoid refined sugar.
- Quit smoking.
- Limit red meat consumption.
- Consume vegetables such as spinach, green beans, radishes, artichokes.
- Prefer brown, wholemeal, whole wheat, rye bread.
- Get rid of your excess weight in a healthy way, not fast.
- Exercise regularly.
When your Gamma Glutamyl Transferase GGT value is high, of course, the first person you should listen to is your doctor. While strictly following your doctor’s treatment At the same time, by following the above suggestions, you can speed up your treatment process and regain your health much faster.
What is the Gamma Glutamyl Transferase GGT value considered dangerous?
Gamma Glutamyl Transferase GGT value, which is seen above 45 U / L in adult women and above 65 U / L in adult men, is considered high and therefore dangerous. However, this value depends on the person’s age, gender, health status and even according to recent dietary and alcohol consumption habits Note that it may vary.
In any case, when your physician suspects such a situation, he does not want only your Gamma Glutamyl Transferase GGT value to be measured in your blood test. together with GGT Different enzymes such as ALP, ALT, AST, LDH are also measured. The diagnosis is made after the results of all these measurements are evaluated in relation to each other.
You don’t have to worry right away; Is Gamma Glutamyl Transferase GGT a sign of cancer?
The reason for the high Gamma Glutamyl Transferase GGT value in the blood test results may be liver and pancreatic cancer, but only the high GGT value It is not a single sign of cancer. Your doctor will reach the most accurate result by evaluating other results and requesting different analyzes.
Showing the health status of our liver, pancreas and gallbladder What is Gamma Glutamyl Transferase GGT, what does its high and low mean We answered your questions. What we describe is for informational purposes only. Remember that as with all health issues, you should get the most accurate and specific information about your GGT value from a specialist physician.