Liver Tests

[Centex]

I recently had a blood test done, and the results for one area were abnormal.  The reading for GGT was 164.  The CDT Interpretation was normal.  SGOT(AST) was 23 and SGPT(ALT) was 29, both which are normal.  So all of the liver tests except the GGT were normal.  I was instructed to not drink any alcohol and return in 3 weeks for a test.  I returned and another test was done.  This time GGT was 177.  I was told this is usually an indication of high alcohol consumption i.e. alcoholism.  I would classify myself as a mild/social drinker, averaging 5 drinks per week.  Physical exam of liver showed no abnormalities.  Sonagram was done, and test will be ready next week.  I was told to not drink any alcohol for next 2 months and return for another blood test.  Going without any alcohol for last 4 weeks has not been a problem.

My question is how significant is 164/177 GGT reading when normal is 0-64?  Seems off the charts to me!  After 3 weeks without any alcohol, wouldn't that be long enough to get rid of any affects in the liver?  If not, how long does that take?  If after two months without any alcohol, the GGT is still high, what would be your prognosis?  Isn't the CDT a better indicator of alcholism (alcoholism) than GGT?  Is it possible to just have a normally high GGT level such as mine?  Out of the 20 areas test on the blood sample, the only area abnormal was the GGT.  What are your thoughts on this?

Thanking you in advance.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

The GGT can indeed be indicative of liver disease.  The ultrasound is a good idea - and should rule out most of the more serious liver diseases.  I would also consider blood tests looking for hepatitis.

If the liver tests are negative, you can consider serially monitoring the GGT.  There are other non-liver diseases that can raise the GGT, including pancreatic disease, myocardial infarction, renal failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, diabetes, and alcoholism.

These options can be discussed with your personal physician.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
http://www.straightfromthedoc.com

[Christie2004]

Here's a previous Q and A from the doc that mentions some possible causes of an elevated GGT.  

http://www.medhelp.org/forums/gastro/messages/36201a.html

[Centex]

Thanks for directing me to the earlier comments ref. this subject.  I appeicate the feedback.

[mellon419]

A related discussion, liver enzymes very high was started.