Video Lecture ARCHIVED: NOT AVAILABLE FOR CREDIT

The Analytical & Clinical Complexities of Human Chorionic Gonadotropin Tests

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 the molecular heterogeneity of the hormone has been elucidated. This presentation addresses the clinical uses of hCG tests in pregnancy, malignancy, and Down syndrome. Causes of false-positive and false-negative results and persistently low concentrations of hCG are discussed.

Originally presented November 08, 2011 in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Lecture Presenter

David G. Grenache, PhD, MT(ASCP), DABCC David G. Grenache, PhD, MT(ASCP), DABCC
Medical Director, Special Chemistry Laboratory, ARUP Laboratories
Associate Professor of Pathology, University of Utah School of Medicine

Dr. Grenache is the director of the Special Chemistry Laboratory at ARUP and is a certified diplomate by the American Board of Clinical Chemistry. Dr. Grenache earned his PhD from Worcester Polytechnic Institute in Worcester, Massachusetts and completed a clinical chemistry fellowship at Washington University, St. Louis.

Objectives

After this presentation, participants will be able to:

  • Describe the synthesis, function, and variants of hCG.
  • Discuss the clinical utility of hCG testing in the diagnosis and management of uterine and ectopic pregnancy and malignancy.
  • Describe the causes of persistently low hCG results and explain investigations that can be used to identify them.
  • Describe analytical issues associated with hCG assays and identify troubleshooting techniques.

Sponsored by:

University of Utah School of Medicine and ARUP Laboratories