Question: Hello, I’m 55 YO post menopausal woman who went to the ER for palpitations (which were benign). Among the plethora of tests they ordered, one was a quantitative HCG test, which came back positive at 8.6. The on call ob/gyn was consulted and said it was a normal finding as it was under 10. They suggested I schedule a follow up with my doctor. I reached out to him by message and he seemed pretty concerned. He ordered a CA-125, ultrasound, and a CEA. I understand an ultrasound, but I’m alarmed by him ordering these other tests immediately. I have no symptoms and all other blood tests at the ER, including liver, Thyroid, etc were normal. He’s got me terrified and I’m not sure if this result of 8.6 absolutely means ovarian cancer. As a side note, I take Spironolactone (100mg BID) and Alprazolam (.25 to .75 daily). Thank you for answering my questions.

I should add that they said they ordered the pregnancy test by mistake. When it came back positive, they did the quantitative analysis, which was higher than the 5 limit at 8.6. The doctor on call said it would be a normal finding “up to 10” in a post menopausal patient, but suggested considering an ultrasound.

Thank you. So in your medical opinion, a result of up to what level of HCG could be normal in a menopausal woman?

I had the transvaginal ultrasound. No masses, cysts, normal uterus etc. however they said they found a mild to moderate amount of free flowing fluid in the pelvis. Could this mean cancer elsewhere? I’m so scared. Thank you.

So fluid does not ALWAYS mean cancer else where? Maybe in another organ? Ty so much.