what is ggt in blood test

A gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) blood test measures the amount of GGT in the blood. GGT is an enzyme found throughout the body, but it is mostly found in the liver, kidney, pancreas, heart, and brain. The test is used to help diagnose liver conditions or to rule out certain medical conditions based on abnormal results. GGT may leak into the bloodstream if the liver or bile duct is damaged, so having high levels of GGT in the blood may indicate liver disease or damage to the liver’s bile ducts. However, because many types of liver issues can cause elevated levels of GGT in the blood, healthcare providers don’t use the test alone to diagnose conditions. Instead, they usually order GGT blood test alongside other liver function tests. A healthcare professional will take a blood sample from a vein in the arm, using a small needle. After the needle is inserted, a small amount of blood will be collected into a test tube or vial. The test usually takes less than five minutes. There is very little risk to having a blood test, and no special preparations are needed for a GGT test.