False-positive human serum chorionic gonadotropin in a patient with a history of germ cell cancer.
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.
Trojan
Andreas
A
Clinic and Policlinic of Oncology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland. andreas.trojan@usz.ch
Joller-Jemelka
Helen
H
Stahel
Rolf A
RA
Jacky
Emanuel
E
Hersberger
Martin
M
D000328:Adult; D014408:Biomarkers, Tumor / Q000097:blood*; D018997:Chorionic Gonadotropin, beta Subunit, Human / Q000097:blood*; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D005189:False Positive Reactions; D018237:Germinoma / Q000097:blood* / Q000175:diagnosis; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008476:Mediastinal Cyst / Q000097:blood / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000601:surgery; D013736:Testicular Neoplasms / Q000097:blood* / Q000175:diagnosis
D014408:Biomarkers, Tumor; D018997:Chorionic Gonadotropin, beta Subunit, Human