Pregnancy Test, Urine
Also known as: hCG, Urine, Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG), Qualitative, Urine
Use
Confirmation of pregnancy; normal or ectopic (latter is best done by the more sensitive type assay such as ICMA); evaluation of threatened abortion, trophoblastic tumors, support for the diagnosis of testicular tumors, ectopic hCG production by nontrophoblastic tumors
Special Instructions
Deliver specimen to the laboratory immediately following collection to maintain sample integrity. Consideration should be given to possible cross-reactivity in patients taking certain medications, and confirmatory testing might be needed in some cases.
Limitations
This test exhibits a sensitivity of 20 mIU/mL and typically becomes positive by the seventh day after missed menstruation. Specimens with proteinuria or hematuria may affect test performance and should be interpreted cautiously to avoid false-positive or false-negative results. Methadone therapy may also result in false positives. Cross-reactivity with LH and other gonadotropins is minimal but should be considered. Positive results in cases of choriocarcinoma, hydatidiform mole, and neoplastic conditions require careful interpretation. Positive results may persist for a week following complete abortion.
Methodology
Immunoassay (EIA)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 2106-3
- 2106-3
Result Turnaround Time
1 day
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Urine
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Container
Plastic urine container
Collection Instructions
Deliver specimen to the laboratory immediately following collection.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerate
Causes for Rejection
Gross contamination with blood or bacteria; specimen older than 48 hours from date and time of collection