Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
Human Chorionic Gonadotropin
Also written as: hCG — Human Chorionic Gonadotropin
A hormone produced during pregnancy, measured to detect and monitor pregnancy and certain tumors.
Full Definition
Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is a glycoprotein hormone produced by the placenta during pregnancy and by certain tumors. hCG consists of alpha and beta subunits, with the beta subunit being specific for pregnancy testing. Quantitative hCG measurements are used to monitor pregnancy progression, detect ectopic pregnancies, and screen for gestational trophoblastic disease. hCG is also elevated in some testicular and ovarian cancers.
Usage
Usage note: Lowercase 'h' in hCG abbreviation; beta-hCG specifically refers to the beta subunit.
In Context
- "Serial hCG measurements showed appropriate doubling consistent with viable intrauterine pregnancy." — Obstetrics report
- "Elevated human chorionic gonadotropin in a non-pregnant male raised suspicion for testicular cancer." — Oncology consultation
Also known as
hCG
Beta-hCG
Don't confuse with
Follicle-Stimulating Hormone
Luteinizing Hormone