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Alpha-Subunit Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG), Serum/Plasma — Mass Concentration

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

Measures the alpha-subunit form of hCG in blood. This specialized hCG test may support pregnancy evaluation or assessment of hCG-producing conditions.

Quick summary

["This blood test measures a specific part of the hCG hormone and must be interpreted with the test type, symptoms, and other results."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
108760-0
Short code
A-HCG Msmt SerPl
Synonyms
A-HCG Msmt SerPl
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 the alpha-subunit form of human chorionic gonadotropin, or hCG, in serum or plasma. hCG is a hormone produced during pregnancy, although it can also be produced by certain tumors.

Why might I need this test?

A clinician may order this test during the evaluation of pregnancy or in certain situations involving hCG-producing conditions. Many routine pregnancy tests measure total or beta-subunit hCG instead, so confirm the exact analyte reported by the laboratory.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is drawn and separated into serum or plasma. The laboratory then measures hCG using an analytical method, often an immunoassay.

How do I prepare for the test?

Fasting is usually not required. Tell your clinician if you are pregnant, recently pregnant, or receiving fertility treatment or hCG injections, because these factors can affect the result.

Reference range

Non-pregnant: <5 mIU/mLN/A

Specimen: serum

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.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Alpha-subunit hCG, serum/plasma

Frequently asked questions

Is this the same as a routine pregnancy test?
Not always. Routine pregnancy tests commonly measure total or beta-subunit hCG, while this test name indicates measurement of the alpha subunit. The laboratory can confirm exactly what was tested.
Why might my hCG result be checked more than once?
Repeated testing can show whether hCG is rising or falling as expected. This is often used during early pregnancy evaluation or when monitoring certain pregnancy-related or tumor-related conditions.
What if I am not pregnant?
A detectable result is not automatically a problem because low levels can occur for several reasons. Your clinician will interpret it with your symptoms, medical history, and other laboratory results.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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