60.9k views
0 votes
Which of the following lab tests can be used to detect chronic alcohol abuse?

A. Red blood cell count
B. White blood cell (WBC) count
C. γ-Glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT)
D. Creatine phosphokinase
E. Alkaline phosphatase

1 Answer

3 votes

Final answer:

The γ-Glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) test is used to detect chronic alcohol abuse because it can be elevated with minor levels of liver dysfunction and is particularly raised in cases of alcohol toxicity.

Step-by-step explanation:

Among the lab tests listed, the γ-Glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) is a specific test that can be used to detect chronic alcohol abuse. While GGT is reasonably specific to the liver and is a sensitive marker for cholestatic damage, it can be elevated with minor, sub-clinical levels of liver dysfunction. It is particularly raised in cases of alcohol toxicity, which can be acute or chronic. GGT can also help in identifying the cause of an isolated elevation in alkaline phosphatase (ALP). Although other liver function tests are used to examine overall liver function, they are not as specific for detecting chronic alcohol abuse as GGT.

User Dan Homola
by
8.5k points