HCG Beta Total, Tumor Marker

Beta Human Chorionic Gonodotropin, Tumour Marker test measures the level of hCG hormone in the blood. HCG is a hormone produced by the placenta. It is normally detected in blood during pregnancy and not normally present in men or non-pregnant women. However, in some cancers, this hormone may be produced, indicating hCG test as a useful tumor marker.

HCG concentrations are increased in cases of testicular tumors, ovarian germ cell tumors and gestational trophoblastic disease. The levels are also seen to be elevated in diseases such as liver, breast, lung, skin, and stomach cancers as well as non-cancer conditions such as cirrhosis, duodenal ulcer, and inflammatory bowel disease. An increased hCG level after treatment may indicate a recurrence of disease. This test is not intended to detect or monitor pregnancy.