Abstract | OBJECTIVE: STUDY DESIGN: The USA hCG Reference Service measured proportions of free beta-subunit in 128 cases, 45 with active invasive trophoblastic disease and 83 questionable cases with persistent low hCG levels, with or without history of gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD). RESULTS: High proportions of free beta-subunit (> 30% of total hCG) were identified in 18 of 128 cases, all suspected of having PSTT or nontrophoblastic neoplasm, which was reported to referring physicians. Within 2 months of testing, hysterectomy or tumor biopsy led to histologic proof of PSTT in 13 of the 18 cases and biopsy led to proof of nontrophoblastic neoplasm in 5 of the 18 cases. CONCLUSION: We confirm use of proportion of free beta-subunit (> 30%) as a seemingly absolute test for identifying PSTT and nontrophoblastic neoplasms. It should be used to identify and diagnose these malignancies in women presenting with persistent low hCG levels outside of pregnancy and in secondary evaluation of patients with a history of GTDs.
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Authors | Laurence A Cole, Sarah A Khanlian, Carolyn Y Muller |
Journal | The Journal of reproductive medicine
(J Reprod Med)
Vol. 53
Issue 7
Pg. 457-64
(Jul 2008)
ISSN: 0024-7758 [Print] United States |
PMID | 18720919
(Publication Type: Journal Article)
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Chemical References |
- Chorionic Gonadotropin, beta Subunit, Human
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Topics |
- Chorionic Gonadotropin, beta Subunit, Human
(blood)
- Female
- Gestational Trophoblastic Disease
(blood)
- Humans
- Pregnancy
- Trophoblastic Tumor, Placental Site
(blood)
- Uterine Neoplasms
(blood)
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