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Beta Human Chorionic Gonadotropin, Total Test

Overview
What is b-hCG?
b-hCG is known as Beta Human Chorionic Gonadotropin. b- hCG test is also known as Pregnancy test or Total hCG test. b- hCG test measures the levels of b-hCG in the blood. b-hCG is normally produced by the cells of the developing placenta, during pregnancy. However, high levels of b-hCG are also seen in certain tumors (cancers).
Why is b-hCG done?
To confirm pregnancy
To diagnose pregnancy in the location other than the normal (Ectopic pregnancy)
For first trimester screening of genetic diseases like Down’s syndrome and Trisomy 18
To diagnose the presence of Gestational Trophoblastic Disease (GTD)
To diagnose any suspected tumors like Teratomas, Testicular tumors, Ovarian germ cell tumors
What does b-hCG Measure?
b-hCG test measures the levels of b-hCG in blood. b-hCG is a hormone which is normally produced by the cells in the developing placenta, during pregnancy. b-hCG levels increase during the initial period of the pregnancy. The role of b-hCG in early pregnancy is to maintain the corpus luteum (the hormone-secreting structure that develops in an ovary). During the first three weeks, production of b-hCG increases reaching to peak levels at 10th week (from the last menstrual cycle). After that, the levels of b-hCG start falling to negligible levels within a few weeks after delivery.
In men and women, b-hCG is normally found in small amounts. b-hCG is composed of two big molecules known as alpha and beta subunit. The structure of the alpha subunit is similar to the structure of Follicle-stimulating hormone and Luteinizing hormone. The beta subunit is different and is found only in b-hCG. That is why b-hCG test is done to decrease the risk of cross-reaction.
Interpreting b-hCG results
Interpretations
Low b-hCG levels are seen in the following conditions:
Error in calculation of pregnancy date
Miscarriage
The blighted ovum (Pregnancy without embryo)
Ectopic pregnancy (Pregnancy other than normal location or outside of the uterus)
High b-hCG levels are seen in the following conditions:
Error in calculation of pregnancy date
Molar pregnancy (an abnormal pregnancy where the baby does not develop)
More than one pregnancy (Twins or Triplets)
Answers to Patient Concerns & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about b-hCG
Frequently Asked Questions about Beta Human Chorionic Gonadotropin, Total Test

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