In substance abuse assessments, what is typically measured by Gamma-glutamyltransferase?

Gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT) is an enzyme found in various tissues throughout the body, predominantly in the liver. Its primary use in substance abuse assessments is to indicate liver health and function, particularly in relation to alcohol consumption. Elevated levels of GGT can suggest recent heavy alcohol intake. This makes it a useful biomarker for healthcare professionals assessing an individual's alcohol consumption patterns.

While GGT can help provide insights into a person's drinking habits, it is not directly linked to general health and fitness levels, blood sugar levels, or caloric intake and nutrition. Those assessments rely on different tests and biomarkers. Therefore, the measurement of GGT is specifically valuable in understanding patterns of alcohol consumption and potential alcohol-related liver damage, reinforcing its relevance in substance abuse evaluations.