HCG in blood serum - qualitative

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HCG in blood serum - qualitative

Definition:

This is a blood test to detect beta-HCG (human chorionic gonadotropin), a hormone normally produced during pregnancy.

Alternative Names:

Beta-HCG in blood serum - qualitative; Human chorionic gonadotrophin - serum - qualitative; Pregnancy test - blood - qualitative; Serum HCG - qualitative

How the test is performed:

Blood is drawn from a vein, usually on the inside of the elbow or the back of the hand. The puncture site is cleaned with antiseptic, and an elastic band cuff is placed around the upper arm to apply pressure and restrict blood flow through the vein. This causes veins below the band to swell with blood.

A needle is inserted into the vein, and the blood is collected in an air-tight vial or a syringe. During the procedure, the band is removed to restore circulation. Once the blood has been collected, the needle is removed, and the puncture site is covered to stop any bleeding.

How to prepare for the test:

No special preparation is usually necessary.

How the test will feel:

When the needle is inserted to draw blood, some people feel moderate pain, while others feel only a prick or stinging sensation. Afterward, there may be some throbbing.

Why the test is performed:

Most often, this test is performed to determine if you are pregnant or not. The serum HCG level may also be high in women with certain types of ovarian tumors or men with testicular tumors.

Review Date: 11/30/2004
Reviewed By: Jacqueline A. Hart, M.D., Internal Medicine, Newton-Wellesley Hospital, Boston, Ma.

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