Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG), Quantitative, Pregnancy, Serum
Use
This test is useful for the early detection of pregnancy, the investigation of suspected ectopic pregnancy or other pregnancy-related complications, and monitoring in vitro fertilization patients. It is designed to measure the concentration of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), which is produced in the placenta during pregnancy. It allows for the diagnosis of pregnancy as early as 1 week after conception and helps monitor pregnancy progression by checking that hCG values in pregnancy double every 2 to 3 days for the first 6 weeks. However, it is not useful for detecting or monitoring tumors or gestational trophoblastic disease.
Special Instructions
For 12 hours before specimen collection, patients should avoid taking multivitamins or dietary supplements containing biotin (vitamin B7), as it is commonly found in hair, skin, and nail supplements. Serum gel tubes should be centrifuged within 2 hours of collection. Red-top tubes should also be centrifuged and serum aliquoted into a plastic vial within 2 hours of collection.
Limitations
There may be false elevations in some patients who have human anti-animal or heterophilic antibodies, causing diagnostic confusion. Some specimens may not dilute linearly due to abnormal forms of hCG. Elevated hCG concentrations not associated with pregnancy can be found in patients with diseases such as tumors of the germ cells, ovaries, bladder, pancreas, stomach, lungs, and liver. This test is not intended for the detection of, or to monitor, tumors or gestational trophoblastic disease.
FDA ApprovedNew York Approved
Methodology
Immunoassay (ECLIA)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 83086-9
- 83086-9
Result Turnaround Time
1 day
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
0.5 mL
Minimum Volume
0.4 mL
Container
Serum gel or Red top, Submission: Plastic vial
Collection Instructions
Serum gel tubes should be centrifuged within 2 hours of collection. Red-top tubes should also be centrifuged and serum aliquoted into a plastic vial within 2 hours of collection.
Patient Preparation
For 12 hours before specimen collection, do not take multivitamins or dietary supplements containing biotin (vitamin B7).
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis and gross icterus
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated | 72 hours |
| Frozen | 365 days |