HCG, BETA, TOTAL, QUANTITATIVE, MATERNAL

Beta-HCG (Beta-Human Chorionic Gonadotropin) is a hormone which is produced by the placenta during pregnancy. It is needed during the first 3 months of pregnancy and the levels are high. After 20 weeks of pregnancy, HCG levels decrease but still remain higher than non-pregnant state. After delivery or abortion, the levels fall rapidly within 24 to 36 hours. This test is used to confirm pregnancy and to diagnose abnormal growth in placenta called Gestational trophoblastic disease like Hydatidiform Mole & Choriocarcinoma.