Gamma Glutamyl Transferase (GGT) as a Diagnostic Marker for Metabolic Syndrome and Cardiovascular Risk

Nandini M S ¹, Priya Santharam ¹, Bindu D ^1*, Priya V ¹

GGT showed high sensitivity and specificity for diagnosing metabolic syndrome, aiding early detection and management to reduce cardiovascular risks.

Abstract

Background: The increasing prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MS), driven by rising obesity rates, significantly heightens the risk of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. Gamma Glutamyl Transferase (GGT), an enzyme linked to oxidative stress and metabolism, has emerged as a potential biomarker for diagnosing metabolic syndrome and assessing cardiovascular risk. This study evaluates the diagnostic performance of GGT in identifying metabolic syndrome and its associated cardiovascular risks in an Indian hospital-based cohort. Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted at Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital from December 2018 to December 2019. A total of 120 participants were included, with 60 diagnosed with metabolic syndrome and 60 age- and sex-matched controls. Serum GGT levels were measured and compared between the two groups. The study also assessed parameters of metabolic syndrome including central obesity, blood pressure, glycemic control, and dyslipidemia. Results: GGT levels were significantly elevated in patients with metabolic syndrome (93% of cases) compared to controls. The sensitivity and specificity of GGT for diagnosing metabolic syndrome were 87% and 100%, respectively (p < 0.001). Elevated GGT levels correlated strongly with hypertriglyceridemia and other components of metabolic syndrome. Even GGT levels at the upper limit of normal were associated with increased cardiovascular risk. Conclusion: Elevated GGT levels are a robust marker for diagnosing metabolic syndrome and assessing cardiovascular risk. The high sensitivity and specificity of GGT underscore its potential as a valuable tool for early detection and management of metabolic syndrome. Integrating GGT measurements into clinical practice could improve early intervention strategies and reduce cardiovascular morbidity and mortality.

Keywords: Gamma Glutamyl Transferase (GGT), Metabolic Syndrome, Cardiovascular Risk, Biomarker, Sensitivity and Specificity

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