False-positive human serum chorionic gonadotropin in a patient with a history of germ cell cancer

Oncology
Andreas TrojanMartin Hersberger

Abstract

Tumor markers, including the beta-subunit of human chorionic gonadotropin (beta-hCG), and radiological imaging methods are commonly used for the diagnosis and monitoring of testicular cancer. We report of a patient with a history of classical seminoma stage I who had elevated serum levels of beta-hCG suggesting relapse 5 years after initial treatment. Radiological evaluation revealed a pericardial cyst, which was surgically removed. Histological evaluation did not demonstrate malignant tissue, suggesting a false-positive beta-hCG. Further workup confirmed this suspicion as we could demonstrate false-positive test results due to heterophilic antibodies detectable in the patient's serum. This case stresses the need for verification of beta-hCG levels in patients where clinical results are not in line with laboratory results.

Citations

Mar 7, 2009·Nature Clinical Practice. Urology·Nicolas HenryOlivier Cussenot
Apr 21, 2012·Cancer·Danny VespriniPadraig Warde
Dec 6, 2019·Journal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network : JNCCN·Timothy GilliganLenora A Pluchino
Apr 4, 2021·International Journal of Molecular Sciences·João LoboRui Henrique

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