|
|
|
High hCG levels
|
|
The normal range is 0.2-3 MoM (multiples of the median). High levels indicate a
statistically increased risk for
Down syndrome which is expressed in the calculated weighted statistical
risk. If amniocentesis
is performed, this will confirm or rule out the presence of a fetus with Down syndrome,
and if the fetus is normal there will be no further risk for genetic problems.
All studies undertaken have failed to find a correlation between elevated hCG and
specific genetic problems.
However, a correlation has been found between high hCG values and an increased risk
for the development of complications of pregnancy such as hypertension and a decreased fetal growth rate in the
third trimester that is double that for the population with normal hCG levels -
10 out of 100 versus 5 out of 100. In view of this, it is advisable to monitor the
fetus's growth regularly every three weeks from the 28th week. It is also advisable
for pregnant women to undergo routine blood pressure checks.
|
|
|