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Intact Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG), Serum or Plasma

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

Measures intact human chorionic gonadotropin in blood, primarily for pregnancy testing and monitoring pregnancy or certain trophoblastic tumors.

Quick summary

["This blood test detects or monitors hCG, a hormone produced during pregnancy and by some tumors."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
45194-8
Short code
HCG Intact+B SerPl-aCnc
Synonyms
HCG Intact+B SerPl-aCnc
Category
kidney
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 intact human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in serum or plasma. hCG is a hormone made by the developing placenta after conception.

Why might I need this test?

The test may be used to confirm or rule out pregnancy, assess possible early pregnancy loss, or monitor pregnancy. It can also help evaluate and follow certain placental or trophoblastic tumors that produce hCG.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is collected, and the laboratory measures the amount of intact hCG in the serum or plasma. When results are being compared over time, the same laboratory and testing method may be helpful.

How do I prepare for the test?

Fasting is usually not required. Follow any instructions from your healthcare professional, especially if the test is being ordered as part of a series to track changes in hCG.

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

Intact hCG blood test

Frequently asked questions

Does a positive intact hCG result always confirm pregnancy?
A detectable result usually supports the presence of pregnancy, but very early pregnancy can occasionally produce a result below the laboratory's detection limit. Your clinician will interpret the result with the date of the test and your clinical situation.
Why is my hCG test repeated?
Serial hCG tests show whether the level is rising, falling, or staying stable. This can help evaluate an early pregnancy or monitor treatment for a pregnancy-related condition.
Can hCG be elevated when I am not pregnant?
Rarely, hCG can be detectable from non-pregnancy sources, including certain tumors or normal pituitary production. An unexpected result should be reviewed by your healthcare professional.
  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