Lab test · Hepatology
Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase (GGT)
Liver & bile duct health
- Blood sample
- No fasting
- Report within 24 hours
- Home collection
What this test is for
Liver & bile duct health
Gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) is an enzyme found mainly in the liver and bile ducts. It rises when the bile ducts are blocked or irritated, in many liver conditions, and with regular alcohol use and some medicines. GGT is sensitive to liver problems but not specific, so doctors read it with other liver tests, especially alkaline phosphatase.
Why a doctor may order it
- To find out whether a raised alkaline phosphatase comes from the liver or from bone
- As part of a liver check for jaundice, fatty liver or suspected bile duct problems
- To look for effects of alcohol on the liver
- To check the liver when taking medicines that can raise GGT
How to prepare
Fasting: Not needed.
You do not need to fast for GGT. Alcohol can raise GGT, so it is best to avoid drinking in the days before the test and to tell your doctor honestly about your usual intake. Keep taking your regular medicines, and mention any epilepsy medicines, as some raise GGT.
At home
- Sample
- Blood sample
- How it works
- The collector takes a small blood sample from a vein in your arm at your home in a few minutes. GGT is often requested together with other liver enzymes, which can be measured from the same tube.
- Report
- Within 24 hours of collection.
What the results can mean
Your report shows GGT next to the laboratory's range. A raised GGT can point to bile duct problems, fatty liver, liver inflammation, alcohol use or the effect of some medicines, while a normal GGT with a raised ALP suggests the ALP may come from bone. GGT on its own cannot say which condition is present. Your doctor will interpret it together with your other liver tests and history.
What's included
One test: Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase (GGT), from one blood sample.
Related tests
- Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP)Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) is an enzyme found mainly in the liver, especially in the cells lining the bile ducts, and in bone.
- Liver Function Test (LFT)Liver function৳550
- SGPT (Alanine Aminotransferase, ALT)SGPT, also called ALT (alanine aminotransferase), is an enzyme found mainly inside liver cells.
- SGOT (Aspartate Aminotransferase, AST)SGOT, also called AST (aspartate aminotransferase), is an enzyme found mainly in the liver, but also in the heart, muscles and red blood cells.
- Bilirubin (Total, Direct and Indirect)Jaundice & liver check৳350
- Total Protein with A/G RatioBlood protein, liver & nutrition৳590
Questions people ask
Does a high GGT mean I drink too much alcohol?
Not necessarily. Alcohol is a common cause, but fatty liver, bile duct problems, excess weight, diabetes and some medicines can also raise GGT.
Why is GGT tested with alkaline phosphatase?
Both rise in bile duct problems, but only ALP rises in bone conditions. Checking GGT helps your doctor tell whether a high ALP is coming from the liver or bone.
Can a raised GGT come down?
Yes. When the cause is removed or treated, for example when a person stops drinking alcohol, GGT usually falls over the following weeks. Your doctor may repeat the test to check.
How much does a GGT test cost in Dhaka?
With Mukti Health the price is ৳450, and the sample is collected at your home in Dhaka. You see the price again before you confirm the booking in the Mukti Health app.
Can I do the GGT test at home in Dhaka?
Yes. Book it in the Mukti Health app and a trained sample collector comes to your home in Dhaka to take the blood sample. You do not need to go to a laboratory.
How long does the GGT report take?
The report is usually ready within 24 hours of the sample being collected.