What does it mean when gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) is high, and what should be done?
Feb 27, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
Elevated gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) levels may be caused by factors such as smoking, alcohol consumption, acute hepatitis, cholangitis, and cirrhosis. Patients can receive symptomatic treatment based on the specific underlying cause. Additionally, acute myocardial infarction can also lead to increased GGT levels. If elevated gamma-glutamyl transferase is detected, a comprehensive evaluation is recommended to determine the underlying cause and initiate appropriate treatment.
Under normal circumstances, elevated γ-glutamyl transferase (GGT) levels may be caused by factors such as smoking, alcohol consumption, acute hepatitis, cholangitis, or cirrhosis. Patients can receive symptomatic treatment based on the specific underlying cause. Detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Smoking
Smoking can damage the liver, as toxic substances in tobacco may lead to hepatocyte injury and inflammatory responses. When the liver is damaged, the release of γ-glutamyl transferase increases, resulting in elevated serum levels. It is recommended to quit smoking to avoid adverse health effects.
2. Alcohol consumption
Excessive alcohol intake has direct toxic effects on the liver. Long-term heavy drinking can lead to fatty liver, alcoholic hepatitis, and cirrhosis. These conditions cause hepatocyte damage and inflammation, increasing the release of γ-glutamyl transferase and thus elevating its serum levels. It is advisable to limit alcohol consumption and maintain a regular lifestyle.
3. Acute hepatitis
Acute hepatitis is an acute liver inflammation caused by viral infections such as hepatitis B virus or hepatitis C virus. Liver cell damage due to hepatitis leads to the release of γ-glutamyl transferase from hepatocytes into the bloodstream, thereby increasing serum GGT levels. Patients may take medications such as azathioprine tablets or bicyclol tablets under medical supervision.
4. Cholangitis
Cholangitis refers to infection or inflammation of the bile duct system, usually caused by bacterial infection. It can lead to bile stasis and subsequent liver cell damage, resulting in the release of enzymes including γ-glutamyl transferase. Therefore, elevated serum GGT levels are commonly seen in patients with cholangitis. Treatment may include anti-inflammatory and bile-promoting medications such as Xiaoyan Lidan tablets or cefixime granules, taken under medical guidance.
5. Cirrhosis
Cirrhosis results from long-term liver damage, characterized by fibrous tissue proliferation, structural disorganization, and loss of liver function. During cirrhosis, hepatocytes progressively degenerate and are replaced by fibrous tissue. Enzymes such as γ-glutamyl transferase are released into the bloodstream, leading to increased serum GGT levels. Patients may be treated with medications such as furosemide injection or bumetanide tablets under a doctor's supervision.
In addition, acute myocardial infarction can also cause elevated γ-glutamyl transferase levels. If elevated GGT is detected, it is recommended to undergo comprehensive evaluation to determine the underlying cause, followed by targeted treatment accordingly.
