Free Alpha Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (α-hCG), Serum/Plasma — Concentration
Measures the free alpha-hCG subunit in blood; this test is often used with other markers during pregnancy screening.
["A free alpha-hCG blood test measures part of the hCG hormone and is usually interpreted with other prenatal screening results."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 30206-7
- Short code
- A-HCG Free SerPl-aCnc
- Synonyms
- A-HCG Free SerPl-aCnc
- Category
- liver
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 5
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 84702
- SNOMED
- 275917004
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
This test measures free alpha human chorionic gonadotropin, or free alpha-hCG, in serum or plasma. Alpha-hCG is one part of the hCG hormone produced during pregnancy.
Why might I need this test?
Free alpha-hCG may be ordered as part of a prenatal screening panel that also includes other hormone markers. It is generally interpreted together with the mother's age, gestational stage, ultrasound findings, and other test results.
How is the test performed?
A blood sample is collected, and the laboratory uses a specialized method to measure the amount of free alpha-hCG in the serum or plasma.
How do I prepare for the test?
Fasting is usually not required, but follow your healthcare provider's instructions. Tell the laboratory if you are pregnant or if you have recently received hormone-based fertility treatment, because these can affect hCG measurements.
Reference range
Non-pregnant: <5 mIU/mLN/A
No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
An abnormal free alpha-hCG result may affect the estimated risk of certain pregnancy conditions, including chromosomal differences. The result does not by itself confirm or rule out a condition and must be interpreted with the rest of the prenatal screening or diagnostic evaluation.
Short name
Free alpha-hCG
Frequently asked questions
Is free alpha-hCG the same as a standard hCG test?
Does an abnormal result mean the baby has a health condition?
Can fertility medications affect this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy