. Beta-human chorionic gonadotropin (β-hCG) is a hormone produced primarily by the placenta during pregnancy and plays a vital role in maintaining early pregnancy by supporting progesterone production.
. The β-hCG test is commonly used to confirm pregnancy, as its levels rise significantly in the early stages, often detectable as early as 10 days after conception. It also helps monitor the health of a pregnancy, with abnormally low or slow-rising levels indicating potential complications such as miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy, while elevated levels may suggest multiple pregnancies or trophoblastic diseases like hydatidiform mole. It is also used to assess implantation and pregnancy progression in fertility treatments.
. Additionally, β-hCG is a marker for certain cancers, including testicular and ovarian tumors.
. This test is not a standalone diagnostic tool and must be interpreted alongside clinical findings and other tests, such as ultrasound.