Chorionic gonadotropin
Chorionic Gonadotropin
Chorionic Gonadotropin (pronunciation: koh-ree-on-ik goh-nad-oh-troh-pin), also known as Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG), is a hormone produced during pregnancy by the placenta after implantation.
Etymology
The term "Chorionic Gonadotropin" is derived from the Greek words "chorion" (meaning "outer membrane surrounding the embryo") and "gonadotropin" (meaning "a hormone that stimulates the gonads").
Function
Chorionic Gonadotropin stimulates the ovary to produce progesterone during the first trimester of pregnancy, thereby maintaining the uterus lining for the implanted embryo. It is also responsible for the growth of the corpus luteum.
Detection
Chorionic Gonadotropin is detected in the blood and urine of pregnant women through pregnancy tests. High levels of hCG can also indicate multiple pregnancies, such as twins or triplets.
Medical Use
In medicine, Chorionic Gonadotropin is used as a tumor marker, as it can be produced by some cancers. It is also used in fertility treatments to trigger ovulation and to support the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle.
Related Terms
- Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH)
- Luteinizing hormone (LH)
- Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)
- Pregnancy test
- Tumor marker
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Chorionic gonadotropin
- Wikipedia's article - Chorionic gonadotropin
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