Beta HCG IHC

The β-hCG IHC test is a laboratory procedure that uses an antibody called β-hCG to detect the presence of β-hCG protein in tissue samples.

• Diagnose germ cell tumors: The β-hCG IHC test is a valuable tool for diagnosing GCTs. It can help to identify tumors that are producing β-hCG and to determine the extent of the disease.
• Monitor response to treatment: The β-hCG IHC test can be used to monitor the response to treatment for GCTs. If a patient's β-hCG levels decrease after treatment, it may mean that the treatment is working.
• Detect recurrence of germ cell tumors: The β-hCG IHC test can be used to detect the recurrence of GCTs. If β-hCG levels increase after treatment, it may mean that the cancer has recurred.

• People with symptoms of germ cell tumors: Symptoms of a GCT can include pain or swelling in the testicles, ovaries, or other parts of the body.
• People who are at high risk of developing a germ cell tumors: People who are at high risk of developing a GCT include those with a family history of GCTs, those with Klinefelter syndrome, and those who have had cryptorchidism (undescended testicles).

A positive β-hCG IHC test result means that β-hCG was detected in the tissue sample. This may be a sign of germ cell tumors. However, it is important to note that a positive β-hCG IHC test result does not always mean that a GCT is present. Other conditions, such as pregnancy and certain inflammatory conditions, can also cause β-hCG to be produced.

• A small sample of your tissue will be collected, usually a biopsy or surgical specimen.
• The sample will then be sent to the laboratory for testing using immunohistochemical staining. 

No special preparations are required for this test. However, it's important to inform your doctor about any medications you are taking that may affect the result. Follow any instructions given by your doctor.

• IHC Single Marker with Reporting Beta HCG
• Immunohistochemistry for Beta Human Chorionic Gonadotropin

Gestational trophoblastic disease refers to a group of rare conditions that involve the abnormal growth of cells inside a woman's uterus. This includes molar pregnancies and choriocarcinomas.

Germ cell tumors (GCTs) are a group of cancers that arise from primordial germ cells. These cells are the precursors of sperm and eggs, and they are found in the gonads (ovaries and testes) during fetal development. After birth, primordial germ cells migrate from the gonads to other parts of the body, where they can potentially give rise to GCTs. GCTs are relatively rare tumors, accounting for about 1% of all cancers in adults. However, they are the most common type of cancer in young adults aged 15 to 34 years.