Utility of beta‐human chorionic gonadotropin in pleural effusions: Report of an autopsy case of a male patient with primary pulmonary choriocarcinoma

Abstract

Abstract A 69‐year‐old male patient presented with bloody pleural fluid effusion and elevated beta‐human chorionic gonadotropin (β‐hCG) levels obtained by thoracentesis. The patient's condition rapidly deteriorated, and he died. The autopsy revealed primary pulmonary choriocarcinoma. Early diagnosis of choriocarcinoma based on β‐hCG levels in the pleural fluid may be possible.

Keywords

• bloody pleural fluid effusion
• choriocarcinoma
• β‐Human chorionic gonadotropin