Which enzyme is particularly elevated in hepatoma patients?

In patients with hepatoma, or liver cancer, the enzyme that is particularly elevated is gamma glutamyl transferase (GGT). This enzyme is involved in the metabolism of glutathione and the transfer of amino acids across cellular membranes. Elevated levels of GGT in the serum can indicate liver dysfunction or damage, which is often seen in the context of hepatoma.

GGT is also sensitive to alcohol consumption and various liver diseases, making it a useful marker in the clinical setting. While other enzymes, such as alkaline phosphatase and lactate dehydrogenase, may also be elevated in liver disease, GGT is more specifically associated with hepatocellular damage and can serve as a more direct indicator of liver pathology, including hepatoma.

Amylase, while important for digestive functions, is typically associated with pancreatic disorders rather than liver cancer. Therefore, GGT's role as a marker for hepatoma is well recognized in clinical practice, highlighting its significance in the diagnosis and monitoring of liver tumors.