What does the Pregnancy Test in serum detect?

The pregnancy test in serum specifically detects the presence of human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) levels. HCG is a hormone produced by the placenta shortly after a fertilized egg attaches to the uterine lining. This hormone is critical for maintaining pregnancy and is often the primary indicator used in both serum and urine tests to confirm pregnancy. High levels of HCG can be identified in blood tests, making it an effective and reliable testing method early in gestation.

The significance of detecting HCG in a serum pregnancy test lies in its timing and sensitivity. Blood tests can detect HCG levels before a missed period, providing quicker confirmation of pregnancy than traditional urine tests. This hormone's presence not only confirms pregnancy but can also offer valuable insights into the health of the pregnancy, as abnormal HCG levels can indicate potential complications.

In contrast, insulin levels, thyroid hormones, and blood pressure do not provide any indication of pregnancy status, making them irrelevant to this specific inquiry.