Attention, chocolate lovers: You may not be able to help yourselves. Swiss and British scientists have linked the widespread love of chocolate to a chemical "signature" that may be programmed into our metabolic systems.
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Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase
Overview & Description
Gamma-glutamyltransferase, also known as GGT, is an enzyme that is found mainly in the liver. But it may also be found in the:
Who is a candidate for the test?
GGT levels are measured when a doctor suspects there is damage or disease in the liver or the biliary system.
How is the test performed?
In order to measure the amount of GGT in the blood, a blood sample is taken from a vein on the forearm or hand. First, the skin over the vein is cleaned with an antiseptic. Next, a rubber tube called a tourniquet is tied around the upper arm. This enlarges the veins in the lower arm by restricting blood flow through them. A fine needle is gently inserted into a vein, and the tourniquet is removed. Blood flows from the vein through the needle and is collected in a syringe or vial for testing in the laboratory. After the needle is withdrawn, the puncture site is covered for a short time to prevent bleeding.
Preparation & Expectations
What is involved in preparation for the test?
Generally, no preparation is required for this test.
Results and Values
What do the test results mean?
For men, the healthy values for GGT are 2 to 30 U/L.
For women, the healthy range is 1 to 24 U/L.
Abnormal levels of GGT can be found in the following conditions:
In addition, certain medicines that are used to prevent seizures such as tegretol, phenobarbital, and dilantin may be related to abnormal levels of GGT.
Attribution
Author:Melinda Ratini, DO, MS
Date Written:
Editor:Crist, Gayle P., MS, BA
Edit Date:06/18/02
Reviewer:Kathleen A. MacNaughton, RN, BSN
Date Reviewed:06/13/02