Quick answer
The Gamma GT (GGT) Test costs ₹650 at Live Line Health Care. Measures a bile duct enzyme that helps show whether a raised ALP comes from the liver or from bone. No fasting is needed. It uses a blood sample and the report is usually ready the same day. Book home sample collection or visit any of our 45 centres.
Also known as: GGT, GGTP, Gamma GT, Gamma Glutamyl Transferase, Gamma Glutamyl Transpeptidase, S. GGT, Serum GGT
What is the Gamma GT (GGT) Test?
The Gamma GT (GGT) test measures gamma glutamyl transferase, an enzyme found mainly on the cells lining the liver’s bile ducts, with smaller amounts in the kidneys and pancreas. GGT rises when bile flow is slowed or when the liver is exposed to alcohol and certain medicines. It is very sensitive, so it often climbs before other liver values, but that same sensitivity means it rises for many reasons and cannot name a single disease.
Doctors have two main uses for it. The first is sorting out a raised alkaline phosphatase (ALP). ALP comes from both the bile ducts and bone, and a raised ALP with a high GGT points to the liver, while a normal GGT points towards bone. The second is looking at alcohol intake, since GGT tends to rise with regular drinking and to fall over several weeks of not drinking. GGT is already included in the LFT panel, so check an earlier report before booking it separately. This stand-alone test fits best when one specific question needs answering.
What it measures: The activity of gamma glutamyl transferase, an enzyme linked to the bile ducts and to alcohol and medicine exposure.
Parameters included (1)
- Gamma Glutamyl Transferase (GGT)
Why is this test done?
- Finding out whether a raised ALP comes from the liver or from bone
- Looking for bile duct problems such as gallstones or narrowing
- Assessing the effect of regular alcohol on the liver
- Following progress after cutting down alcohol
- Assessing fatty liver along with SGPT, weight and blood sugar
- Reviewing long-term use of seizure medicines such as phenytoin and carbamazepine
When should you get tested?
- An earlier report with a raised ALP
- Itching, dark urine or pale stools
- Regular drinking, or difficulty cutting down
- Pain or fullness under the right ribs
- Known fatty liver, obesity or diabetes
How to prepare for the Gamma GT (GGT) Test
- 1No fasting is needed for this enzyme.
- 2Avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours. Regular drinking can keep GGT raised for weeks, so tell your doctor honestly how much you usually drink.
- 3Tell staff about seizure medicines and keep taking them as prescribed.
- 4If you drink heavily every day, speak to a doctor before stopping suddenly, because withdrawal can be dangerous.
Gamma GT (GGT) Test normal range
| Parameter | Typical reference range |
|---|---|
| GGT (men) | Up to about 60 U/L |
| GGT (women) | Up to about 40 U/L |
GGT tends to run higher with age and body weight, and limits differ noticeably between laboratory methods. Ranges are typical adult values and vary between labs, age and sex. Always use the range printed on your report and discuss results with your doctor.
Understanding your results
- High GGT with high ALP suggests the bile ducts or liver are the source, and your doctor may request an ultrasound.
- Normal GGT with high ALP suggests the ALP is coming from bone, as can happen during growth, in vitamin D deficiency or in bone disease.
- A high GGT alone, with other liver tests normal, is common with alcohol, fatty liver, excess weight or some medicines. It does not by itself prove liver disease.
- A clear fall over several weeks after cutting down alcohol supports alcohol as the cause. A low GGT is not a concern.
Gamma GT (GGT) Test – FAQs
What is the price of the Gamma GT (GGT) Test?
The Gamma GT (GGT) Test costs ₹650 at Live Line Health Care, at all 45 centres and for home sample collection.
Does a high GGT always mean I drink too much?
No. Alcohol is one common reason, but GGT also rises with fatty liver, bile duct problems, diabetes, excess weight, pancreatitis, heart failure and some medicines, including seizure tablets. People who never drink can have high values. Your doctor reads it along with your history and other liver tests.
How long after stopping alcohol does GGT come down?
Usually over several weeks, though the speed varies with how much you drank and how healthy your liver is. A clear fall supports alcohol as the cause. If you drink heavily every day, speak to a doctor before stopping suddenly, because withdrawal may need medical supervision.
Why test GGT if my ALP is high?
ALP comes from both the bile ducts and bone, so a high ALP alone does not show the source. GGT is found in bile ducts but not in bone. If GGT is also high, the liver is the likely source. If GGT is normal, your doctor will look towards bone instead.
Is GGT included in a liver function test?
Yes, our LFT panel includes GGT along with bilirubin, SGOT, SGPT, ALP and proteins. You do not need this separate test if you have just had an LFT. Book it alone if your doctor wants only this value, for example to recheck it after reducing alcohol intake.
What is a normal GGT level?
Typical adult limits are up to about 60 U/L for men and up to about 40 U/L for women, though exact cut-offs vary widely by method. Mildly raised values are common and not always harmful. Use your report’s printed range and discuss any high value with your doctor.
Where can I get the Gamma GT (GGT) Test done?
At any of our 45 Live Line Health Care centres in 40 cities across Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, including Hyderabad, Visakhapatnam, Warangal, Kakinada and Nellore, or book home sample collection.
Medical disclaimer: This information is for general awareness only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult a qualified doctor to interpret your results and before starting or changing any treatment.