What should my ggt level be

Abstaining from alcohol will decrease your chances of further damaging your liver and should allow your liver function to improve. Gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase GGT is an enzyme found mainly in your liver. A GGT test is used to check for signs of liver damage or disease. Excessive alcohol consumption will most likely cause your GGT levels to increase.

Anthony Close. October 2, , Biomarkers , Health Hub. How is the GGT test used? What does the GGT test result mean? Summary of GGT What is gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase? What is its function? GGT plays a key role in breaking down drugs and toxins. What can cause it to change? High levels can be a sign of liver damage or disease. When the needle is inserted to draw blood, some people feel moderate pain.

Others feel only a prick or stinging. Afterward, there may be some throbbing or a slight bruise. This soon goes away. GGT is an enzyme found in high level in the liver, kidney, pancreas, heart, and brain.

It is also found in lesser amount in other tissues. An enzyme is a protein that causes a specific chemical change in the body. This test is used to detect diseases of the liver or bile ducts. Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories. Some labs use different measurements or may test different specimens. Talk to your provider about the meaning of your specific test results. There is little risk involved with having your blood taken. What is it used for?

A GGT test is most often used to: Help diagnose liver disease Figure out if liver damage is due to liver disease or a bone disorder Check for blockages in the bile ducts Screen for or monitor alcohol use disorder. Why do I need a GGT test? You may need a GGT test if you have symptoms of liver disease.

What happens during a GGT test? Will I need to do anything to prepare for the test? You don't need any special preparations for a GGT test. Are there any risks to a GGT test? What do the results mean? The damage may be due to one of the following conditions: Hepatitis Cirrhosis Alcohol use disorder Pancreatitis Diabetes Congestive heart failure Side effect of a drug.

Certain medicines can cause liver damage in some people. Together your results may show one of the following: High levels of ALP and high levels of GGT means your symptoms are likely due to liver disorder and not a bone disorder. If you have questions about your results, talk to your health care provider.

Is there anything else I need to know about a GGT test? References American Liver Foundation. New York: American Liver Foundation; c ClinLabNavigator; c