HCG - Qualitative - Serum
Alternate Names : Beta-HCG - Qualitative Serum, Human Chorionic Gonadotrophin - Qualitative Serum, Pregnancy Test - Blood, Qualitative Serum Beta-HCG, Serum HCG
DefinitionThis is a blood test to detect beta-HCG (human chorionic gonadotropin), a hormone normally produced during pregnancy.
Pictures & Images
See all Pictures & Images
Why is the Test Performed?
Most often, this test is performed to confirm or rule out pregnancy. Serum HCG may also be increased in women with certain types of ovarian tumors or men with testicular tumors.
HCG, a hormone produced during pregnancy, is detectable in the blood or urine 1 to 2 days after implantation of the fertilized egg in the uterus (10 days after ovulation). It increases rapidly in the first trimester, reaching a peak 60 to 80 days after fertilization; then drops off quickly to 10-30% of the peak value for the rest of the pregnancy.
HCG maintains progesterone production by the corpus luteum in the early part of pregnancy. By the time HCG drops at the beginning of the second trimester, the placenta can make sufficient progesterone to maintain the endometrium. HCG also stimulates the development of fetal gonads and synthesis of androgens (male hormones) by the fetal testes.
Today's Top News Stories | | Falls Are Top Cause of Injury, Death Among Elderly - Jul 19, 2008, 09:00 Not all homes are the same, but common sense measures can reduce the risk, expert says. | | Heart Blood Vessels Grown in the Lab - Jul 18, 2008, 19:00 Could offer a future alternative to bypass surgery, researchers say. | | Clinical Trials Update: July 18, 2008 - Jul 18, 2008, 09:24
- Breast Cancer
- Hot Flashes
- Emphysema
| | Loud Music in Bars Hastens Drinking - Jul 18, 2008, 16:00 French researchers say blasting tunes makes patrons down more alcohol in less time. | | Breast-Fed Babies Have Fewer GI Infections - Jul 18, 2008, 17:00 But they're more likely to be iron-deficient, study finds. |
|