Glossary Please select an letter from the A-Z list or search # A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z gall bladder The organ connected to the liver which stores bile. gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT) GGT is an enzyme in the blood. Higher than normal levels may indicate liver or bile duct disease. gastrointestinal Relating to or affecting the stomach, gut or bowel. gastroscopy Examination of the stomach using a fibre optic device. gene A DNA sequence which determines the structure of a protein. generic drug A drug (medicine) manufactured and sold without a brand name, in situations where the original manufacturer’s patent has expired or is not enforced. Generic drugs contain the same active ingredients as branded drugs, and have almost identical strength, safety, efficacy and quality. genotype A strain or subtype of a virus. For hepatitis C, genotypes are identified by a number (e.g. genotypes 1,2,3,4,5 and 6); some subtypes have also been identified (e.g. genotypes 1a and 1b). For hepatitis B, genotypes are identified by a letter (A to H). The genotype may influence the risk of disease progression for both viruses; some genotypes respond differently to some treatments. giardiasis An illness caused by the gut parasite Giardia lamblia. globulins Proteins found in the blood and cerebrospinal fluid. glucose A form of sugar found in the bloodstream. All sugars and starches are converted into glucose before they are absorbed. glutathione A natural chemical used by the body to work against oxidative stress. glycogen Glucose stored in cells, predominantly found in the liver. grade The grade of hepatitis infection refers to the amount of liver inflammation found by a biopsy. Usually measured on a scale of 1 to 18 (higher numbers indicated more severe inflammation). granulocytes See neutrophil. granulocytopenia A shortage of neutrophils. gynaecology Study of medical conditions specific to women's reproductive organs.