What causes elevated gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) levels?
Disease description:
Health checkup revealed elevated gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT). No physical discomfort has been noticed in daily life, except for occasional fatigue after staying up late. I would like to know what could be the cause of this elevated level?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Gao Jun
Gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) primarily exists in tissues such as the liver and bile ducts. Elevated levels are commonly caused by alcohol consumption, biliary tract diseases, drug side effects, and other factors.
Alcohol is a common cause of increased GGT levels. Long-term excessive alcohol consumption can damage liver cells and stimulate the liver to produce more GGT to cope with toxic substances generated during alcohol metabolism. GGT levels may significantly rise within a few days after heavy drinking.
Biliary tract diseases are also associated with elevated GGT levels. Conditions such as cholecystitis and gallstones can obstruct bile excretion, increase pressure within the bile ducts, and cause damage to liver and bile duct cells. This damage leads to the release of GGT into the bloodstream, resulting in abnormal test results.
Side effects of certain medications should not be overlooked either. Some antiepileptic drugs and antibiotics may affect normal liver function during their metabolism in the body, leading to elevated GGT levels. Additionally, patients with fatty liver disease may exhibit increased GGT levels due to hepatic steatosis and impaired liver cell function.
