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

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.