Antibodies to hCG - are proteins capable of binding to human chorionic gonadotropin hormone (short. HCG), hindering the development of pregnancy. A hormone produced by the embryo after its introduction into the uterine wall, and some tumors.
Indications for analysis
Test the level of antibodies (Abs) to hCG is conducted to control pregnancy, identify the causes of infertility and as an additional method for controlling the growth of testicular tumors and prostate in men and trophoblastic (pregnancy-related) disease in women.
To control the pregnancy test for antibodies to IgG and IgM immunoglobulin hCG is used in:
- miscarriages;
- habitual miscarriage;
- fetal death in a previous pregnancy.
The indications for study is the presence of an autoimmune disease in a pregnant woman, when synthesized in the body's own tissues to the antibody. If a woman suffers from an autoimmune disease, there is a risk of development of antibodies and gonadotropin.
The reason for the test is used in women:
- planning to become pregnant;
- control over hormone production after IVF;
- identifying fetal defects;
- spontaneous or induced abortion;
- infertility caused by immunological factors.
In the diagnosis of cancers method for determining antibodies to gonadotropin hormone considered optional.
Preparation for delivery
In order to eliminate the distortion of research results, before delivery should:
- take food for 10 hours prior to drawing blood;
- eve limit physical, mental stress, do not drink alcohol;
- stop smoking for 30 minutes before the procedure.
To obtain an accurate result can not take place before delivery of biomaterial research diagnostic tools or physiotherapy. Allowed before testing the reception of a small amount of drinking carbonated water.
As the analysis
To determine the level of antibodies using blood immunosorbent assay (ELISA). A precipitate is withdrawn from the antecubital vein.
To be tested can be in a medical laboratory in the morning on an empty stomach.
The result is ready after 1 day.
Analysis indicated for pregnancy within the period indicated:
- The first trimester (8-13 weeks). The study is conducted in conjunction with the analysis of PAPP-A.
- Second trimester (15-20 weeks). Testing is combined with the study of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) and the free estriol.
The values of the norm
Transcription analysis is performed in terms of the AT class IgM and IgG. Normally IgM antibodies to hCG should be from 0 to 30 U / ml, and for IgG -. 0 to 25 U / ml.
If the result of the study does not exceed the permissible values during pregnancy, the fetus is developing normally. Elevated levels of antibodies may indicate a risk:
- placental tissue damage;
- disorders of the corpus luteum;
- placental insufficiency;
- occurrence of DIC.
In the absence of the normal pregnancy level of antibodies to gonadotropin means:
- correct operation of the reproductive system (timely ovulation, corpus luteum formation, ripening of follicles);
- stable immunity (normal regulation of the activity of phagocytes sufficient antibodies);
- good blood circulation in the endometrium;
- adequate synthesis of hormones progesterone and estrogen.
Normal analysis of the men points to the production of the required amount of sex hormones testosterone and dihydrotestosterone.
Causes and treatment of abnormalities
According to statistics, 25% of women with recurrent miscarriage, found elevated levels of antibodies to hCG.
In pregnancy disruption of the immune system causes an anti-hCG syndrome, comprising the generation of antibodies to the cells of the developing placenta and chorion. The antibody binds to the hCG molecule with gonadotropic hormone, blocking its activity.
Elevated antibodies to hCG with missed abortion, miscarriage. Causes Increased performance test may include:
- immunological infertility;
- violation of the production of progesterone, estrogen in women;
- growth hCG-producing tumors;
- fetal abnormalities.
After an abortion, analysis should show a decrease of antibodies to gonadotropin. This reduction is a sign of effective procedure.
In the event of indicators of women's rules should treat gynecologist and men - the urologist or oncologist.
Assign analyze and decipher the results can be one of these professionals.
Selectable regimens depend on the immunological status of the patient and the cause of the deviation from the norm.
To save or pregnancy appoint:
- drugs that reduce the risk of autoantibodies;
- plasmapheresis for removal of anti-HCG.
Infertility caused by disorders of blood flow in the uterus, prescribe medications that improve blood circulation in the endometrium.
plasmapheresis treatment at elevated antibodies to hCG prescribe courses, each of which consists of 5 sessions. To clean the membrane the method of autoantibodies is considered more effective.
By lowering drugs probability synthesis autoantibodies refers metipred comprising a glucocorticosteroid hormone methylprednisolone. The drug has immunosuppressive effects by inhibiting the process of fetal rejection.
Instead metipred gynecologist may prescribe prednisolone. Medication regimen selected individually.
