HCG Test

Hcg test is done to measure Beta hCG in blood. The levels of this hormone correlate well with weeks of gestation. Pregnant women with placental tissue disease, ectopic pregnancy, certain tumours even outside uterus can have abnormal levels of  this hormone

Hcg test measures Beta hCG in serum of the patient. Beta hCG is produced by placental tissue and also outside placenta by certain tumours. It is also secreted in gestational trophoblastic disease. The serum levels peak at 12th week of gestation, thereafter hCG concentrations fall, levelling off around week 20, significantly above prepregnancy levels. After delivery, miscarriage, or pregnancy termination, hCG falls with a half-life of 24 to 36 hours, until prepregnancy levels are reached

Hcg test requires a blood sample. A tourniquet (elastic) band is placed tightly on the upper arm. The patient is then asked to make a fist. This helps in the build-up of blood filling the veins. The skin is disinfected before needle insertion and the blood sample is collected in vacutainer

Normal levels in Non-pregnant women is less than 5 mIU/mL.
In pregnancy, hCG level rise can be correlated with gestational weeks especially in the first trimester.
High level when comparing with weeks of gestation indicates more than one fetus, Choriocarcinoma of the uterus, Hydatidiform mole, Ovarian cancer, Testicular cancer (in men). False high values have been found due to heterophile antibody interference occasionally. The falsely elevated values do not lead to very high levels. Levels above 20 mIU/mL can be detected in urine and this can serve to confirm the false elevation.
Low level may indicate: Fetal death, incomplete miscarriage, threatened spontaneous abortion, ectopic pregnancy