Higher Level of GGT During Mid-pregnancy is Associated with Increased Risk of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus

Objective: This study was to explore the link between gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), alanine transaminase (ALT) and aspartate transaminase (AST) levels during early-middle pregnancy and subsequent risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM).

Methods: In a prospective cohort study, pregnant women enrolled prior to 16 weeks of gestation were followed up until delivery. GGT, AST and ALT levels were tested during weeks 14-18 of gestation and oral glucose tolerance test was conducted during 24-28 weeks to screen GDM.

Results: The GDM rate was 8.1% (122/1512). Mean GGT level was higher in GDM than non-GDM women (18.7 ± 13.0 vs 14.5 ± 7.0, P < .001). The higher GGT level was 26.9~74.0 U/L, which was significantly associated with increased risk of GDM. The adjusted RR (95% CI) comparing higher GGT level versus lower was 5.40 (3.36-8.68). No significant correlation was found between ALT or AST levels and the risk of GDM.

Conclusions: The results suggest that pregnant women with higher serum GGT during early-middle pregnancy have higher risk of developing GDM. A GGT level >26.9 U/L may indicate an increased risk of developing GDM later and should be further concerned.