Liver value GPT

introduction

The abbreviation GPT stands for Glutamate Pyruvate Transaminase. In addition to the name GPT, the name ALT or alanine amino transferase is also often used. This is synonymous with the exact same enzyme.

The term describes an enzyme that can be found in several organs. In addition to the liver, in which it occurs in particularly high concentrations, these organs also include the heart and normal skeletal muscles. Above all, however, the enzyme occurs in the liver, since there is a high demand for the enzyme here. Like GPT (ASAT), the enzyme belongs to the transaminases and is involved in the breakdown of proteins. The two laboratory values ​​serve as important parameters in the diagnosis of liver diseases such as hepatitis, poisoning and diseases of the biliary tract. The determination can also be useful in the event of a heart attack.

Normal values

The GPT values ​​are determined from the blood. This requires drawing a small amount of blood from a vein.

Adult men should have a GPT value between 10 and 50 U / l (units per liter). A value between 10 and 35 U / l is aimed for in adult women. Values ​​that are too low have no disease value. Other concentrations should be aimed for for children. These also depend on the age.

As with all laboratory parameters, there are no uniform values ​​for the reference range. This is because, depending on the laboratory, the analytical methods can be slightly different and give slightly different results. Therefore, the reference range is often determined by each laboratory itself, which should be given the greatest attention in case of doubt. In addition, the values ​​that exist in perfect health are subject to a certain fluctuation in every person. Some people physiologically have laboratory values ​​that are outside of the standard even though no disease is present.

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How does the GPT increase?

In addition to GPT, GOT is also included in the group of transaminases. As a rule, a determination is made together with the value of the GGT.

If liver damage is suspected, these values ​​are typically determined. Damage to the heart as part of a heart attack can also trigger an increase in the laboratory value. However, since GPT does not occur specifically in the liver or muscles, exactly one organ can never be named as the cause of an abnormal GPT value. That is why an increased value does not necessarily indicate a disease of the liver. Compared to the value of the GOT, the value of the GPT rises even with minor damage to the liver, since the enzyme occurs primarily in the cytosol (cell fluid) and not in the mitochondria.

One of the liver diseases that cause an increased GPT value is viral hepatitis. This can be strong or weak depending on the type (hepatitis A-E). In acute, severe viral hepatitis, the liver values, like GPT, increase faster and more strongly than in chronic, less pronounced viral hepatitis.

Poisons can also greatly increase the GPT value. The group of poisons that belong to this includes not only alcohol but also some cytostatics that are used, among other things, in tumor therapy. This group also includes the so-called aflatoxins. These poisons come from a mold. Another proponent of toxins that are harmful to the liver is the drug called ovulation inhibitors, which are used for hormonal contraception. Some poisons such as alcohol only develop their harmful effects after long, massive use. In comparison, substances such as aflatoxins can lead to more rapid liver damage.

The GPT value can also increase in the course of a biliary jam. The cause of biliary obstruction does not necessarily lie in the liver. Since the bile drains from the liver towards the gallbladder and small intestine, a backlog can occur in the event of a reduced flow through, for example, a gallstone that obstructs the bile duct. This reflux, in turn, can severely damage the liver cells. Liver tumors, fatty liver, fatty liver hepatitis or cirrhosis can also increase the GPT value.

In addition, some other organ systems can greatly increase the laboratory value without being in contact with the liver. For example, diabetes mellitus, the so-called diabetes, can increase the GPT value. A heart attack, some muscle disorders or the regular use of certain medications can also lead to an increase in the GPT value.

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Which drugs can increase the values?

Drug damage is rare. The main drugs that increase GPT include drugs that are broken down in the liver. Excessive intake of the affected medication can damage the liver cells. The breakdown can also result in substances that have a harmful effect on the liver. In addition, some drugs can inhibit or completely cancel the activity of liver enzymes. As a result, these substances accumulate in the blood and liver. In turn, high concentrations have a damaging effect.

The drugs that cause an increase in the GPT value include, for example, so-called NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) such as ibuprofen. Antibiotics, anti-epileptics such as diazepam or lorazepam or antidepressants can also lead to increased GPT values. If in doubt, the attending physician should always be asked for advice.

Causes of too low GPT values

GPT values ​​that are too low have no disease value.

If possible, the enzyme should not be found in the blood, as its effects work within the cells. Since the enzyme gets into the blood with relatively little cell damage, a low GPT value can even have a positive effect. In fact, a low value may indicate a healthy lifestyle. Refraining from alcohol and physical activity are possible causes for this. In principle, all measures that protect the liver cells from possible damage are possible reasons for a low GPT value.

What is the best way to lower the GPT value?

Due to the fact that an increased GPT value can always have several causes, a doctor should be consulted if the causes are unclear. This finds the actual reasons for the increase through diagnostic measures. If the reason for the increase is the liver, several measures can be taken. The focus should also be on combating the cause.

Since some drugs are liver-damaging when taken for a long time, the responsible drug should be reduced or discontinued in consultation with the treating doctor. As an alternative, a less harmful drug can be used.

If liver disease is the reason, the focus should be on treating this disease. In the case of viral hepatitis, for example, an anti-viral drug can be used in some cases. If there is no form of intervention, all you can do is wait.

If a biliary obstruction is responsible, it is easy to intervene. Depending on the type of drainage disorder, this can result in different therapy options. Most often, however, surgery is preferred. Then it can make sense to check the liver for possible long-term damage.

In the event of damage from poisons, the source should be tracked down and avoided. Alcohol is a special case. Low consumption of alcohol does not pose a risk to the liver cells for the time being. However, alcohol abuse can lead to massive increases in liver values. Since then it is usually very difficult for the person concerned to stop drinking alcohol, a specialist should be consulted.

Another effective way to reduce GPT is by changing your lifestyle. Particular attention can be paid to measures that are gentle on the liver. A balanced diet with avoiding high-fat and high-sugar foods is helpful. It usually means eating more raw vegetables or vegetable-based dishes. Weight reduction is also advisable. It is also helpful to refrain from consuming alcohol altogether and to quit smoking. Caffeine is a special case. There are different views on this. Some even claim that caffeine has a positive effect on the liver and liver values ​​and that regular consumption lowers the GPT value.

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Can you lower the value with home remedies?

The home remedies that are said to have positive effects on the liver include some everyday foods. Often, however, it is enough to drink more clear liquids such as water or tea. This is supposed to support the liver in its work. Dark chocolate and caffeine are also said to have good effects.

In addition, bitter vegetables such as Brussels sprouts, sage or various other herbs that are often consumed as tea are considered helpful. Other home remedies include artichokes, dandelions, nettles, plums, and lemon juice. These foods are good for making salad. They can also be eaten as an accompaniment to other dishes. To avoid fatty meat, fish or poultry, for example, can be used.

Can you lower the GPT value through homeopathy?

Since homeopathy is based on natural substances, some of which are also found in home remedies, a positive effect on the GPT value can be observed with the correct use of such remedies. The instructions of the treating homeopath should be followed. As with any therapy, however, the benefit often depends on the cooperation and even on the patient's belief in the success of the therapy.