American Board of Surgery Qualifying Exam (ABS QE) Practice Test 2026 - Free Surgery Exam Practice Questions and Study Guide

Question: 1 / 650

Which of the following tumors is characterized by the presence of beta-HCG but no AFP?

Teratoma

Seminoma

The presence of beta-human chorionic gonadotropin (beta-HCG) without alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is specifically indicative of a seminoma, which is a type of germ cell tumor found primarily in the testes. Seminomas are known for their production of beta-HCG in some cases, particularly in the pure form of the tumor. They typically do not secrete AFP, which distinguishes them from other germ cell tumors, such as non-seminomatous germ cell tumors like embryonal carcinoma, teratomas, or mixed germ cell tumors, where AFP may be present.

In contrast, teratomas can produce both beta-HCG and AFP, depending on their composition, while lymphoma does not usually produce either marker. Neurogenic tumors, such as those arising from nerve sheath, do not produce these markers. Therefore, the presence of beta-HCG alone, alongside the absence of AFP, is a characteristic finding in seminomas, confirming the significance of this tumor type in the context of tumor markers.

Get further explanation with Examzify DeepDiveBeta

Lymphoma

Neurogenic tumors

Next Question

Report this question

Download American Board of Surgery Qualifying Exam (ABS QE) Practice Test PDF Study Guide
Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy