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hCG, Quantitative (Pregnancy)
MessagePerforming Lab: Central Lab, Hudson, Lakeview, Regions, Sartell, Westfields
Test Code
0194
Alias/See Also
Sunquest: HCGQT; Human Chorionic Gonadotropin, Beta-hCG, BHCG
CPT Codes
84702
Preferred Specimen
0.6 mL Lithium Heparin Plasma (light green-top) tube
Minimum Volume
0.3 mL
Other Acceptable Specimens
Serum (gold-top, red-top, red/gray-top), Lithium Heparin (light green-top) on ICE
Transport Temperature
Refrigerated
Specimen Stability
Refrigerated: 5-7 days
Frozen: 1 month
Frozen: 1 month
Methodology
Immunometric
Setup Schedule
Hospital: Daily
Clinics: Monday - Friday
Clinics: Monday - Friday
Report Available
Same day.
Limitations
This assay measures both the intact and free beta subunits of the hCG molecule.
This assay is to be used as an aid in the assessment of pregnancy status. Other sources of elevated hCG values include ectopic pregnancy, threatened abortion and recent termination of pregnancy. A urine hCG should be ordered if the serum result is inconsistent with the clinical presentation.
The hCG value will usually double approximately every two days during a normal pregnancy.
This assay is to be used as an aid in the assessment of pregnancy status. Other sources of elevated hCG values include ectopic pregnancy, threatened abortion and recent termination of pregnancy. A urine hCG should be ordered if the serum result is inconsistent with the clinical presentation.
The hCG value will usually double approximately every two days during a normal pregnancy.
Reference Range
Negative: <5 mIU/mL
Indeterminate: 5 - 25 mIU/mL
Positive: >25 mIU/mL
Suggest repeat testing of Indeterminate results in 72 Hours
Indeterminate: 5 - 25 mIU/mL
Positive: >25 mIU/mL
Suggest repeat testing of Indeterminate results in 72 Hours
Clinical Significance
The detection of hCG in urine or blood within 3–4 weeks of the last menstrual period is the most reliable indicator for the confirmation of pregnancy. hCG is initially secreted by the trophoblast, and later by the chorion and placenta. Levels rise exponentially to a peak during the first trimester, declining to a plateau during the second and third trimesters. Measurement of hCG has also been applied in the diagnosis of ectopic pregnancy, threatened abortion, and multiple gestation.
