hCG, Total, Quantitative

Overview:

Human chorionic gonadotropin is produced by the placenta shortly after a fertilized egg implants. A quantitative test reports the actual concentration rather than a yes or no answer, which is what allows it to be tracked over time. In early pregnancy the level typically rises substantially every couple of days, and following that pattern can give information a single result cannot, particularly where an ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage is a concern. Blood testing detects hCG earlier than a urine test. hCG is also produced by certain tumors, so the test has uses outside pregnancy.

Categories:

Pregnancy & Prenatal, Hormone, Fertility & Reproductive Health

Biomarkers:

1 biomarker