Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG), Serum/Plasma — Qualitative
A qualitative blood test that detects the presence of human chorionic gonadotropin, most often used to determine whether pregnancy is present.
["A positive result usually supports the presence of pregnancy, while an early pregnancy may still test negative."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 2108-9
- Short code
- A-HCG SerPl Ql
- Synonyms
- A-HCG SerPl Ql
- 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 checks a serum or plasma blood sample for the presence of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). This hormone is produced during pregnancy by the developing placenta.
Why might I need this test?
The test is commonly used to diagnose or rule out pregnancy. It may also be used when evaluating unusual hormone results or symptoms that could be related to hCG production.
How is the test performed?
A blood sample is collected, and the laboratory uses a qualitative test method to report whether hCG was detected. Unlike a quantitative hCG test, it generally does not provide a measured concentration.
How do I prepare for the test?
No special preparation is usually required. Follow your clinician's instructions, and tell the laboratory if you are pregnant or may be pregnant because this can affect interpretation.
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.
A positive result strongly supports pregnancy, but rare false-positive results can occur. A negative result may mean pregnancy is not present, but it can also occur very early in pregnancy or after the pregnancy has ended. If a pregnancy is suspected despite a negative result, repeat testing or a quantitative hCG test may be appropriate.
Short name
Qualitative Serum/Plasma hCG
Frequently asked questions
Does a positive result always mean I am pregnant?
Can a qualitative hCG test be negative during pregnancy?
Is this the same as a home pregnancy 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