Expert: Lawrence Jay Rappaport <B>M.D.</B> - 3/15/2005
Question I have read in many books that elevated levels of HCG can mean that the mother is at a higher risk to have a fetus with Down Syndrome. I'm worried because at 6 weeks LMP, my HCG levels were 59,930. We are sure that there is only 1 baby. I am 27 years old and this is my first child. I am unsure of my LMP, but I am dated at 12w 1d.
Can you please let me know what is considered "elevated". Are my levels considered "elevated" since the high end range for 6-7 weeks is 56,000. How much higher than this range is would put a mother at a higher risk?
Thank you for your help!
Answer Elevated HCG levels have absolutely nothing to do with the possibility of Down's syndrome. Very high HCG values are seen in molar pregnancies (trophoblastic disease) but those are exceedingly elevated. Your value of 59,930 is perfectly within normal limits for 6 weeks gestation, where normal values range between 10,000 - 100,000. High values of HCG do not place the mother at higher risk at all. Don't worry.
