Beta-hCG, Quantitative (Tumor Marker)
Also known as: BHCG TM
Use
Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is a valuable aid in managing patients with trophoblastic tumors, nonseminomatous testicular tumors, and seminomas when used in conjunction with clinical evaluation and other diagnostic procedures. Increased serum hCG concentrations have also been observed in melanoma, carcinomas of the breast, gastrointestinal tract, lung, and ovaries, and in benign conditions like cirrhosis and inflammatory bowel disease. This assay, though FDA cleared for pregnancy detection, is not labeled for use as a tumor marker.
Special Instructions
This test was performed in a CLIA-certified laboratory and is intended for clinical purposes. It is important to separate serum from cells within 2 hours of collection and store the specimen accordingly to avoid degradation.
Limitations
Results obtained with different test methods or kits are not interchangeable. It cannot be interpreted as absolute evidence of the presence or absence of malignant disease and is not interpretable as a tumor marker in pregnant females.
New York Approved
Methodology
Immunoassay (ECLIA)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 21198-7
Result Turnaround Time
0-1 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.4 mL
Container
ARUP Standard Transport Tube
Collection Instructions
Collect in a serum separator tube. Lavender (K2EDTA or K3EDTA), pink (K2EDTA), or green (lithium heparin) tubes are also acceptable. Allow specimen to clot completely at room temperature. Separate serum from cells ASAP or within 2 hours of collection.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerated
Causes for Rejection
CSF, specimens left to clot at 2-8 degrees C, or specimens subjected to repeated freeze/thaw cycles.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 5 days |
| Refrigerated | 2 weeks |
| Frozen | 1 year |