Beta Human Chorionic Gonodotropin,Tumor marker Test

During a women's pregnancy, cells in the developing placenta (the sac that nourishes the egg after it’s fertilization) makes Human Chorionic Gonadotropin or hCG. Some cancerous tumors also produce these hormones. The test can measure elevated levels of the hormones and can help in diagnosing cancer in patients. It is also used to help diagnose gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD). Combined with other tests such as AFP and lactate dehydrogenase, to help diagnose germ cell tumors.

GTD is a group of tumor that develops inside a woman's uterus. As hCG is not commonly present in men or nonpregnant women, it is useful to detect cancerous tumors.

No special preparation required for taking this test. A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. This is done by inserting a needle in your arm and then drawing blood in a vile. A small amount of bruising can occur where the needle was inserted. It can be minimized by applying pressure to the area for some time after the needle is removed. In rare cases, excessive bleeding, lightheadedness, fainting hematoma and infection at the needle site can possibly occur. The test is done there is vaginal bleeding during pregnancy or fatigue related to anemia.

hCG test is used as a tumor marker. An elevated hCG level may indicate an individual has a germ cell tumor. The test is used for Monitoring patients for retained products of conception. It also aids in the diagnosis of gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD), ovarian germ cell tumors, testicular tumors. A high level of hCG may indicate gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD), which may continue to rise past the first trimester in a pregnant woman. hCG levels lower than normal could mean miscalculation of pregnancy dating or possible miscarriage. Nonreproductive tumors like hepatobiliary tumors (hepatoblastomas) and neuroendocrine tumors can also be detected.

A doctor collects the blood sample by following these steps: An elastic band is wrapped around the upper arm to stop the blood flow. It makes the veins more visible so that the needle can be inserted easily. A vein is located, and the surface around the skin is cleaned with an antiseptic. The needle is slowly inserted into a vein, and the blood is drawn inside a tube attached to the end of the needle. The blood sample is collected in a vile. A cotton or gauze is placed onto the puncture site once the needle is removed from the vein.