Certified Medical Assistant Practice Exam

A positive result on a human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) test is a strong indicator of pregnancy. HCG is a hormone produced by the placenta shortly after a fertilized egg attaches to the uterine lining. It is commonly detected in urine or blood tests to confirm pregnancy. In a 23-year-old woman, a positive HCG test typically suggests that she is likely experiencing a pregnancy, particularly if there are other signs or symptoms, such as missed periods or nausea. Other conditions listed, such as hyperthyroidism, kidney stones, or diabetes, do not produce HCG as a response. Hyperthyroidism involves an overactive thyroid gland and is diagnosed through thyroid hormone levels, while kidney stones are related to issues with urine composition and not associated with HCG. Diabetes is a metabolic condition characterized by high blood sugar levels and does not produce this specific hormone. Therefore, the presence of HCG confirms that pregnancy is the condition the woman is likely experiencing.