Interference Evaluation Heterophile, Beta-Human Chorionic Gonadotropin, Serum
Use
This test is useful for evaluating suspected interference from heterophile antibodies causing a falsely elevated human chorionic gonadotropin result. It is particularly used in instances where there is a discrepancy between human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) results and the clinical presentation of the patient or results from other biochemical or imaging tests. The presence of heterophile interference is determined when there is a significant difference in results between alternate platform evaluations, dilution, and pretreatment with heterophile blocking tubes.
Special Instructions
For accurate results, patients should avoid multivitamins or supplements containing biotin for 12 hours prior to specimen collection. This test is not intended for pregnancy testing and should not be used as such. If pregnancy is suspected, order the 'HCG Total OB' test instead.
Limitations
The presence of extremely strong heterophilic interference can result in assay interference that cannot be completely blocked by heterophile-blocking reagents. Values obtained with different assay methods or kits may vary and should not be used interchangeably. The test cannot rule out the presence of other interfering substances such as biotin.
New York Approved
Methodology
Immunoassay (Electrochemiluminescent Immunoassay)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 99306-3
- 21198-7
- 99307-1
- 77202-0
Result Turnaround Time
2-4 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
2.5 mL
Minimum Volume
1.5 mL
Container
Plastic vial
Collection Instructions
Centrifuge and aliquot serum into a plastic vial.
Patient Preparation
For 12 hours before specimen collection, patient should not take multivitamins or dietary supplements (e.g., hair, skin, and nail supplements) containing biotin (vitamin B7).
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis: Reject; Gross lipemia: OK; Gross icterus: OK
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 7 days |
| Refrigerated | 7 days |
| Frozen | 90 days |