The human chorionic gonadotropin test can assist in the detection of cancers such as choriocarcinoma.
Human chorionic gonadotropin is (HCG) is a glycoprotein secreted by the trophoblast cells of the placenta, which is mostly used clinically for the diagnosis of pregnancy, but for patients with choriocarcinoma:
1. after gravida: if a woman shows a plateau in blood HCG levels measured four times in a row (days 1, 7, 14, and 21) for at least 3 weeks after the occurrence of gravida; or if the blood HCG level rises (>10%) up to three times in a row (days 1, 7, and 14) for 2 weeks or longer.
2. After non-hyperemesis gravidarum: If the blood β-HCG level continues to be at a high level for more than 4 weeks after the termination of miscarriage, full-term labor or ectopic pregnancy, or rises again after it has once declined, and the residual pregnancy has been ruled out, or the second pregnancy is ruled out, then it is necessary to be vigilant for the occurrence of choriocarcinoma.
For women who have abnormal blood HCG level, it is recommended to go to gynecology department of regular hospitals to improve gynecological ultrasound, tumor markers and other related examinations, so as to clarify the cause of the disease and then take active treatment under the guidance of doctors.