Video Lecture Human Chorionic Gonadotropin:
Clinical Utility & Diagnostic Considerations

Tests for human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) are usually performed to diagnose suspected pregnancy. However the clinical uses of hCG have become more varied and complex as a greater understanding of the molecular heterogeneity of the molecule is realized. This presentation will address the clinical uses of hCG tests in pregnancy, malignancy, Down syndrome, and the issues of false-positive results and persistently low concentrations of hCG.

Originally presented April 13th, 2009 in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Lecture Presenter

David G. Grenache, Ph.D David G. Grenache, Ph.D
Medical Director, Special Chemistry, ARUP Laboratories
Assistant Professor of Pathology, University of Utah School of Medicine

Dr. Grenache earned his PhD from Worcester Polytechnic Institute in Worcester, Massachusetts and completed a clinical chemistry fellowship at Washington University, St. Louis. He is board certified in clinical chemistry by the American Board of Clinical Chemistry. His main research interests include general clinical chemistry, reproductive endocrinology and biochemistry, and cancer biomarkers.

Objectives

After this presentation, attendees will be able to:

  • Describe the structure, synthesis and function of hCG
  • Discuss the clinical utility of hCG testing in the diagnosis and management of pregnancy, malignancy and Down's syndrome
  • Discuss the causes of false-positive hCG results and persistently low hCG concentrations and explain investigations that can be used to identify each

Sponsored by:

University of Utah School of Medicine and ARUP Laboratories