What should be done about elevated gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) caused by alcoholic liver disease?
Jun 05, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Jiang Weimin
Introduction
Elevated gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) caused by alcoholic liver disease is primarily due to liver damage induced by alcohol irritation. When this occurs, management can be carried out through general treatment, medication, or surgical intervention. Specifically: GGT is an enzyme essential for protein synthesis and is predominantly found in organs such as the liver and kidneys, exhibiting high specificity. Alcoholic liver disease is a type of liver disorder.
Elevated gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) caused by alcoholic liver disease is primarily due to liver damage induced by alcohol stimulation. When this occurs, management can include general treatment, medication, or surgical intervention, as detailed below:
1. General Treatment
Gamma-glutamyl transferase is an essential enzyme for protein synthesis and is predominantly found in organs such as the liver and kidneys, exhibiting high specificity. Alcoholic liver disease is a condition mainly caused by long-term alcohol consumption. Alcohol exposure damages the liver, leading to hepatic steatosis (fatty changes in liver cells) and local tissue fibrosis, which may progress to fatty liver disease. Damaged liver cells release GGT into the bloodstream, potentially causing elevated levels. Patients are advised to stop drinking alcohol completely. Family members should also monitor the patient's physical condition closely to prevent alcohol withdrawal syndrome.
2. Medication
If the condition is more severe and symptoms such as jaundice or edema occur, patients may take medications such as glutathione tablets or shell-lipid capsules under medical supervision.
3. Surgery
If liver damage is extensive, resulting in liver failure and irreversible injury, it is recommended that patients seek hospital care and consider liver transplantation.
In daily life, individuals should maintain a balanced diet, engage in appropriate physical exercise to improve overall health, and make every effort to abstain from alcohol.
