Beta-hCG
Pronunciation: BAY-tuh h-C-G
Also written as: β-hCG — Beta-human Chorionic Gonadotropin
A hormone measured in blood to confirm and monitor early pregnancy after assisted reproduction treatments.
Full Definition
Beta-human chorionic gonadotropin (β-hCG) is produced by the developing placenta and serves as the primary biomarker for pregnancy detection and monitoring. In assisted reproduction, initial β-hCG levels are typically measured 10-14 days after embryo transfer. Rising levels indicate successful implantation, while declining or plateau levels may suggest pregnancy complications. Serial measurements help assess pregnancy viability and detect potential issues such as ectopic pregnancy or pregnancy loss.
Usage
Usage note: Often simply called 'beta' in clinical conversation.
In Context
- "Beta-hCG levels doubled appropriately from 156 to 312 mIU/mL over 48 hours." — Laboratory results
- "Initial beta-hCG was positive at 47 mIU/mL fourteen days post-transfer." — Pregnancy test results