Association between the levels of gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase and the risk of stroke: systematic review and meta-analysis.

Stroke is influenced by numerous factors, both modifiable and non-modifiable. Among these, gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) serves as a prognostic biomarker in cardiovascular diseases and, within this context, in neurological conditions like stroke.To determine whether an association exists between GGT and both ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes.A systematic and comprehensive literature search was conducted across 5 databases, encompassing studies published from their inception to January 28, 2024, following a population, exposure, comparator, outcome, and study (PECOS) framework. Ten primary studies meeting the eligibility criteria were selected.Our findings, based on a meta-analysis of the ten studies, indicate an increased risk of ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes in patients with elevated GGT levels, after excluding outliers. The analysis demonstrated a significant association, with a relative risk of 1.42 (95%CI: 1.01-1.99; I² = 19%) for hemorrhagic stroke and 1.22 (95%CI: 1.10-1.36; I² = 49%) for ischemic stroke.Our study reveals an elevated risk of stroke in patients with high GGT levels, demonstrating a 42% higher likelihood of hemorrhagic stroke and a 22% increased risk of ischemic stroke.