Human placental lactogen measurement is used to evaluate placental function.
More information
Human Placental Lactogen (Human Placental Lactogen, HPL) is a protein hormone produced by the placenta. During pregnancy, placental lactogen promotes an increase in blood glucose levels. Placental lactogen levels gradually increase during pregnancy, reaching approximately 7 µg/mL at the end and a sharp decrease to zero immediately after childbirth. Low placental lactogen levels during pregnancy may indicate fetal difficulty and further evaluation of fetal viability is required with various tests and possibly amniocentesis.
Possible Interpretations of Pathological Values
- Increase: Mother's diabetes mellitus, mother's liver disease, mother's sickle cell anemia, multiple pregnancies, immunization Rhesus (Rh)
- Decrease: Choriocarcinoma, fetal distress, molar pregnancy, delayed intrauterine growth, placental failure, threatened miscarriage, pre-eclampsia
Important Note
Laboratory test results are the most important parameter for the diagnosis and monitoring of all pathological conditions. 70%-80% of diagnostic decisions are based on laboratory tests. The correct interpretation of laboratory results allows a doctor to distinguish "healthy" from "diseased".
Laboratory test results should not be interpreted from the numerical result of a single analysis. Test results should be interpreted in relation to each individual case and family history, clinical findings, and the results of other laboratory tests and information. Your personal physician should explain the importance of your test results.
At Diagnostiki Athinon we answer any questions you may have about the test you perform in our laboratory and we contact your doctor to get the best possible medical care.
