Beta-human chorionic gonadotropin (β-hCG) concentration in serum/plasma
This test measures the amount of beta human chorionic gonadotropin (β-hCG), a hormone produced during pregnancy, in your blood. It helps track early pregnancy and detect potential issues.
["β-hCG levels are critical for confirming pregnancy and monitoring early development."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 22923-7
- Short code
- BRUCG1
- Synonyms
- B abortus IgG1 Mlk Ql IA
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Sterile milk collection vial / cryogenic vial
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) / Immunoassay
- CPT
- 82784
- SNOMED
- 314529007
- Specimen volume
- 5-10 mL of milk
- Stability
- Refrigerated (2-8°C): up to 7 days; Frozen (-20°C or below): up to 4 weeks. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Doctors order a β-hCG test to confirm pregnancy, especially if you have missed periods or other signs of pregnancy. It may also be used to monitor high-risk pregnancies, diagnose ectopic pregnancies, or check for miscarriage. In some cases, it’s part of fertility evaluations or pregnancy complications screening.
How the Test Works
A small blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The lab analyzes the sample for β-hCG levels using a sensitive immunoassay method to detect the hormone’s presence and concentration.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but you may want to drink plenty of water the day of the test. If you’re taking medications, let your healthcare provider know, as some may affect test results.
Possible Results and Interpretation
Low or undetectable levels may indicate no pregnancy or an early miscarriage. Very high levels could suggest multiple pregnancies (twins/triplets) or certain pregnancy complications. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
Reference range
Negative: IgG1 antibodies to Brucella abortus not detected. Positive: IgG1 antibodies to Brucella abortus detected, suggestive of exposure or active infection.N/A
No special patient preparation required. Fasting is not necessary. Sample should be collected aseptically to avoid contamination.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
β-hCG levels are essential for early pregnancy diagnosis, monitoring fetal development, and identifying complications like ectopic pregnancies or molar pregnancies. They’re also used in fertility treatments and post-menopause evaluations for certain conditions.
Short name
β-hCG Level
Frequently asked questions
When might I need this test?
What does a normal β-hCG level mean?
Can diet or medications affect β-hCG test results?
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.
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Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy