In obstructive jaundice, which enzyme is markedly increased along with ALP?

In obstructive jaundice, which enzyme is markedly increased along with ALP?

• A. ALT
• B. GGT
• C. ALP
• D. AST

Answer: (B)

When bile flow is blocked, the liver’s bile ducts experience cholestasis, which drives a rise in enzymes associated with the biliary system. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) comes from bile duct cells and increases markedly in obstructive jaundice because bile cannot flow properly and is forced back into the bloodstream. Gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) is another enzyme concentrated in the liver and biliary epithelium; it becomes elevated in biliary obstruction and is particularly useful because it helps confirm that the ALP rise is coming from the liver/biliary system rather than bone. ALT and AST reflect hepatocellular injury rather than obstruction, and ALP can also be elevated in bone diseases, so GGT helps distinguish the hepatic origin. Therefore, GGT is the enzyme that is markedly increased along with ALP in obstructive jaundice.

When bile flow is blocked, the liver’s bile ducts experience cholestasis, which drives a rise in enzymes associated with the biliary system. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) comes from bile duct cells and increases markedly in obstructive jaundice because bile cannot flow properly and is forced back into the bloodstream. Gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) is another enzyme concentrated in the liver and biliary epithelium; it becomes elevated in biliary obstruction and is particularly useful because it helps confirm that the ALP rise is coming from the liver/biliary system rather than bone. ALT and AST reflect hepatocellular injury rather than obstruction, and ALP can also be elevated in bone diseases, so GGT helps distinguish the hepatic origin. Therefore, GGT is the enzyme that is markedly increased along with ALP in obstructive jaundice.