- Measurement of gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) assists in the diagnosis of liver problems, especially alcoholic cirrhosis and liver tumors. GGT is an enzyme found primarily in the liver and biliary tract, and to a lesser degree in the heart, kidneys, pancreas, prostate gland, and spleen.
- Its function is to assist in amino acid transport across cell membranes. GGT is often measured in conjunction with alkaline phosphatase (ALP) to determine whether the ALP is increased due to liver disease. Whereas ALP may be increased with either hepatobiliary or bone disorders, the GGT is more specific for hepatobiliary problems.
- GGT is more sensitive than ALP, the transaminases (ALT, AST), and leucine aminopeptidase in detecting obstructive jaundice, cholangitis, and cholecystitits.
