Gamma-glutamyltransferase, alanine transaminase and aspartate transaminase levels and the diagnosis of gestational diabetes mellitus

ObjectivesTo evaluate gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT), alanine transaminases (ALT) and aspartate transaminases (AST) levels and prevalent gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM).Design and methodsRandom plasma glucose, GGT, ALT and AST and the 50-g glucose challenge test were done on antenatal women followed by diagnostic 3-point 75-g oral glucose tolerance test within two weeks. GDM was diagnosed by ADA (2011) criteria.ResultsThe GDM rate was 12.2% (319/2610). Mean GGT level was higher in GDM women, 18 ± 12 vs. 16 ± 11 IU/L; P = 0.03. The risk for GDM was higher for women in the highest GGT quartile band compared to the lowest: RR 1.35 95%CI 1.0–1.8; P = 0.04. However, after adjustment for confounders, GGT was no longer associated with GDM. There was no correlation between ALT and AST levels and GDM.ConclusionsLiver transaminases do not predict GDM in contrast to type 2 diabetes.

► The point prevalence of gestational diabetes in our antenatal population is 12.2%.
► A higher level of gamma glutamyltransferase is associated with gestational diabetes.
► After adjusting for confounders, the association was no longer significant,
► Alanine and aspartate transaminase show no relationship to gestational diabetes.
► Liver transaminases are not useful as clinical predictors of gestational diabetes.