Raised GGT Result

Hello
After suffering extreme fatigue, joint pain and muscle weakness for some time I had some blood test done twice three months apart.  The results came out the same both times - All was normal in my Haematology except White Cell Counts was raised at 11.59, my Eosinophils were 0.48 and ESR 29 mm/hr.

On the Biochemistry all within normal expcet Aspartate was 12 IU/L, LDH was 232 IU/L and my GGT was 50 IU/L.  Although a heavy drinker once I have not drank any alcohol for a year.  

Can you indicate what results like this mean, could it be cirrohosis or any of the other diseases?  My ESR has been raised for a number of years but my doctor always dismisses it.

I appreciate your response.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

Depending on the lab, the upper range for GGT is in the 78 iu/L level.  Sedementation rate is normally below 20.  

Your LFTs are within normal lab levels.  If there continues to be concern about the liver, an ultrasound can be considered to look for fatty liver, masses, or other anatomical abnormalities.  

As for the elevated ESR - this is a non-specific finding.  Many, many diseases can cause this level to increase as it is a marker of inflammation.  Common things like injury, infection, rheumatological diseases and rarer things like tumor or cancer can all raise the ESR level.  Without correlating symptoms, the number by itself is not as helpful.  

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.
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