Gamma-glutamyl transferase in blood

The role of GGT in blood biochemistry

Gamma-glutamyl transferase, along with alkaline phosphatase, is among the key cholestatic enzymes. Determining its activity allows for the timely detection of bile outflow disorders and pathological processes in the hepatobiliary system. The test is ordered as part of a standard general clinical blood biochemistry panel for comprehensive diagnostics.

Indications in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

All patients with confirmed non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) are strictly recommended to undergo a blood biochemistry test.

Main objectives of the examination:

• Assessment of the general functional state of the liver.
• Detection of signs of inflammatory processes.
• Diagnosis of cholestasis.
• Determination of a decrease in the organ's synthetic function.

Comprehensive panel of parameters

In addition to GGT, standard blood biochemistry includes a wide range of other mandatory parameters that provide a comprehensive assessment of metabolism and internal organ function:

1. Cytolytic enzymes: alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST).
2. Cholestatic enzymes: alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT).
3. Pigment metabolism: total and direct bilirubin.
4. Protein-synthetic function: total protein and albumin.
5. Metabolic parameters: urea, creatinine, and glucose.

Class and exam questions

What else to study on this topic

• Assessment of the liver's protein-synthetic function via total protein and albumin levels
• Diagnostic role of cytolytic enzymes (ALT and AST) in NAFLD
• Significance of pigment metabolism parameters (total and direct bilirubin)
• Levels of recommendation reliability in clinical practice
• Mandatory general clinical parameters: urea, creatinine, and glucose

Other topics in the "Additional Topics" section

Prepared by WhiteCoat Pro faculty in accordance with the medical school curriculum. For educational purposes only.