Beta-human chorionic gonadotropin (β-hCG) quantitative serum
This test measures the amount of beta-human chorionic gonadotropin (β-hCG) in your blood. β-hCG is a hormone produced after fertilization, typically detected during pregnancy.
["β-hCG helps confirm pregnancy and monitor early development."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 22922-9
- Short code
- BRUCG1
- Synonyms
- B abortus IgG1 Ser Ql IA
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Serum separator tube (SST) or Red-top (no additive) collection tube
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 2
- Ref high
- 4
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- Immunoassay (Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay or Chemiluminescent immunoassay)
- CPT
- 86622
- SNOMED
- 5875006
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL of serum (minimum 0.5 mL)
- Stability
- Room temperature: 8 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C or lower): 30 days. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
- Hemolysis max
- 100
- Lipemia max
- 200
- Icterus max
- 40
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may order a β-hCG test to confirm pregnancy, especially if you have missed menstrual periods or other early pregnancy symptoms. It can also be used to check for ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage, or other pregnancy complications. Additionally, it may be done during pregnancy monitoring to track fetal development or assess high-risk pregnancies.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this blood test. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. If you’re pregnant, it’s important to inform your healthcare provider about any medications you’re taking, including vitamins or supplements.
What to Expect During the Test
The blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch when the needle is inserted, but the procedure usually takes only a few minutes. You can usually return to your normal activities immediately afterward.
What the Results Mean
A β-hCG test result is expressed in units per milliliter (IU/mL). Low levels may indicate an early pregnancy or other conditions. Very high levels might suggest multiple pregnancies or certain pregnancy complications. Your healthcare provider will interpret the results in the context of your medical history and symptoms.
Reference range
Negative: IgG1 antibodies to Brucella abortus not detected; Equivocal: Borderline result – repeat testing in 2-4 weeks recommended; Positive: IgG1 antibodies to Brucella abortus detected, suggestive of active or recent infection. Titers may be reported with a reciprocal value when applicable.N/A
No fasting required. No special patient preparation is necessary. Inform the ordering clinician of recent antibiotic use, recent travel to endemic areas (Mediterranean, Middle East, Central/South America), and occupational exposure history (veterinarians, farmers, abattoir workers, laboratory personnel).
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
β-hCG levels are crucial for diagnosing pregnancy and assessing its viability. Early pregnancy β-hCG levels typically rise gradually, doubling every 48 hours in early pregnancy. Abnormal levels can signal issues such as ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage, or molar pregnancy. Regular monitoring of β-hCG levels is essential in high-risk pregnancies or when complications are suspected.
Short name
β-hCG Level
Frequently asked questions
What does a β-hCG test measure?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
How soon after a missed period should I get a β-hCG 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 15, 2026. · Read our editorial policy