MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Human placental lactogen

Skip navigation


Medical Encyclopedia
Other encyclopedia topics:	A-Ag Ah-Ap Aq-Az B-Bk Bl-Bz C-Cg Ch-Co Cp-Cz D-Di Dj-Dz E-Ep Eq-Ez F G H-Hf Hg-Hz I-In Io-Iz J K L-Ln Lo-Lz M-Mf Mg-Mz N O P-Pl Pm-Pz Q R S-Sh Si-Sp Sq-Sz T-Tn To-Tz U V W X Y Z 0-9

Human placental lactogen

Contents of this page:
Alternative names Definition How the test is performed How to prepare for the test How the test will feel	Why the test is performed Normal Values What abnormal results mean What the risks are Special considerations

Alternative names

HPL

Definition Return to top

This is a blood test that measures the amount of the hormone human placental lactogen (HPL).

How the test is performed Return to top

Blood is drawn from a vein, usually on the inside of the elbow or the back of the hand. The puncture site is cleaned with antiseptic, and an elastic band is placed around the upper arm to apply pressure and restrict blood flow through the vein. This causes veins below the band to fill with blood.

A needle is inserted into the vein, and the blood is collected in an air-tight vial or a syringe. During the procedure, the band is removed to restore circulation. Once the blood has been collected, the needle is removed, and the puncture site is covered to stop any bleeding.

How to prepare for the test Return to top

No special preparation is needed.

For children:
The preparation you can provide for this test depends on your child's age, previous experiences, and level of trust. For specific information regarding how you can prepare a child 12 to 18 years, see adolescent test or procedure preparation.

How the test will feel Return to top

When the needle is inserted to draw blood, some people feel moderate pain, while others feel only a prick or stinging sensation. Afterward, there may be some throbbing.

Why the test is performed Return to top

HPL is a placental hormone that induces insulin resistance and carbohydrate intolerance. HPL also breaks down maternal fats to provide fuel for the fetus.

Normal Values Return to top

A rising HPL value during pregnancy is normal.

What abnormal results mean Return to top

HPL is a hormone produced by the placenta and this test is used to evaluate how well the placenta is functioning. Abnormal results may indicate abnormal (usually insufficient) placenta function.

HPL values are decreased with:

toxemia
aborting molar pregnancy (see hydatidiform mole)
choriocarcinoma
placental insufficiency

HPL values are increased with:

multiple pregnancies
placental site trophoblastic tumor
intact molar pregnancy
diabetes
Rh incompatibility

What the risks are Return to top

excessive bleeding
fainting or feeling lightheaded
hematoma (blood accumulating under the skin)
infection (a slight risk any time the skin is broken)
multiple punctures to locate veins

Special considerations Return to top

The clinical value of this test is limited to certain rare conditions and research purposes.

Veins and arteries vary in size from one patient to another and from one side of the body to the other. Obtaining a blood sample from some people may be more difficult than from others.

Update Date: 7/30/2003

Updated by: Douglas A. Levine, M.D., Gynecology Service, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2002 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.