First, let’s talk about how the practical pregnancy test works. Beta HCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin), which is an important blood parameter for pregnancy detection, is a type of hormone. The release of this hormone begins approximately 11 days after fertilization and continues to rise rapidly after the embryo implants in the uterus.
In a pregnancy test to be performed during this period, the result will be positive since the HCG value in the urine will be high. That means you are expecting a baby. Beta HCG, known in the medical world as chorionic gonadotropin, is produced by the placenta. HCG hormone is available in two types, alpha and beta. Pregnancy is based on beta HCG. This hormone is also the trigger for the production of progesterone, and the progesterone hormone is protective for the baby and prevents abortion (miscarriage).
So what does this have to do with men who test positive for pregnancy?
A man with a positive pregnancy test should see a doctor urgently, because beta HCG elevation in men can indicate serious diseases such as testicular tumors and pineal gland tumors in the brain and should be followed carefully. In other words, sometimes there are situations where a pregnancy test can be applied to male patients.
HCG is not just a hormone secreted by women during pregnancy. It is known that some malignant tumors also secrete this hormone.
In other words, a positive result of a pregnancy test done by a man for fun may indicate that that person is facing a serious health problem. Choriocarcinomas are very rare. This means that most men with testicular cancer will have a negative pregnancy test.
The same goes for a positive pregnancy test result of a woman who is not actually pregnant.
So when should testicular cancer be suspected?
The most common complaint is painless enlargement and swelling in the testis. The most important finding is the palpation of a hard mass with an irregular surface in the testis. Sometimes pain may be the only finding. You should consult a doctor to evaluate your complaint and be examined.
Beta HCG elevation outside of pregnancy; It can also be a precursor to pancreatic, stomach, ovarian, testicular, lung or breast cancer types.
There is also the possibility of Down syndrome, ectopic pregnancy and empty pregnancy. In addition, beta HCG hormone supplementation can be applied to individuals who continue to be treated for reproductive problems. In these individuals, the beta HCG value is higher than normal.
If beta HCG values decrease during pregnancy, this means that there is no healthy pregnancy. Because the beta HCG value should increase at certain intervals throughout pregnancy. In this case, possibilities such as ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage, chemical pregnancy come to mind.
Important Note: This content should not be construed as medical advice. Please talk to your doctor before making any changes to your health.
Sources: 1, 2, 3, 4
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