HCG Beta Total, Tumor Marker

Understanding HCG Beta Total, Tumor Marker

HCG, also known as Beta HCG, is not present in men or non-pregnant women under normal conditions. However, in some cancers, this hormone may be produced, thereby serving as a useful tumor marker. HCG concentrations in the blood may be increased in various gestational trophoblastic diseases (a group of tumors that develop during the early stages of pregnancy), and germ cell tumors (tumors in ovaries and testicles). HCG levels are also seen to be elevated in other cancers such as liver, neuroendocrine, breast, ovaria...

What does HCG Beta Total, Tumor Marker measure?

The HCG Beta Total, Tumor Marker test measures the level of human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) hormone in the blood. It is produced by the placenta and is normally detected in the blood during pregnancy. However, HCG may be elevated in men or non-pregnant women in certain types of cancers, including cancers of the liver, lung, pancreas, and stomach.