hCG, Total, Quantitative
Also known as: Tumor Marker, B-hCG, Pregnancy, Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG), Chorionic Gonadotropin
Use
The quantitative hCG test measures total human chorionic gonadotropin (intact hCG and free β‑subunits) in serum to aid in early pregnancy detection. hCG becomes detectable approximately 7 to 10 days following conception and increases through the first trimester. It may also be produced in certain non‑pregnancy conditions such as trophoblastic disease or testicular neoplasms. Quantitative measurement assists in confirming pregnancy and monitoring hCG trends. ([questdiagnostics.com](https://www.questdiagnostics.com/healthcare-professionals/clinical-education-center/faq/faq114?utm_source=openai))
Special Instructions
Not provided.
Limitations
Heterophilic antibodies can cause low false‑positive results. Phantom hCG may lead to discordant results between serum and urine. Pituitary‑derived hCG may be a source of low‑level results in post‑menopausal women. Use of this assay for non‑pregnancy‑related indications such as monitoring cancer has not been FDA cleared or approved. ([jdos.nicholsinstitute.com](https://jdos.nicholsinstitute.com/dos/uslabs/test/185897?utm_source=openai))
Methodology
Immunoassay (Other)
Biomarkers
hCG (intact and free β‑subunits)
Analyte
Result Turnaround Time
1 day
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.3 mL
Container
Serum separator tube (SST)
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 7 days |
| Refrigerated | 7 days |
| Frozen | 28 days |
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