Intact Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) — Serum/Plasma or Whole Blood, Rapid Immunoassay, Mass Concentration
Measures intact hCG in blood to help determine pregnancy; the specimen and reporting format depend on the test used.
["Detectable hCG usually supports a pregnancy diagnosis, but early testing and the clinical context can affect the result."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 106737-0
- Short code
- HCG Intact+B SerPlBld IA.rapid-mCnc
- Synonyms
- HCG Intact+B SerPlBld IA.rapid-mCnc
- 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
- Method
- ia-rapid
- 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, or hCG, in serum, plasma, or whole blood. hCG is a hormone produced by the placenta after implantation and is the hormone detected by most pregnancy tests.
Why might I need this test?
The test is commonly used to confirm or rule out pregnancy. It may also be used to follow hCG levels over time when a clinician needs to assess pregnancy progression or investigate certain nonpregnancy conditions.
How is the test performed?
A blood sample is analyzed with a rapid immunoassay, which detects hCG using antibodies. Depending on the laboratory method, the result may be reported as present or absent, as an amount per unit of blood volume, or both.
How do I prepare for the test?
Special preparation is usually not required for a blood hCG test. If serial measurements are ordered, testing at consistent times and recording all results can help your clinician interpret the trend.
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.
Detectable hCG in a patient who may be pregnant generally supports the diagnosis of pregnancy. A negative result does not always exclude pregnancy because hCG may be too low to detect very early, particularly soon after a missed period. Unexpectedly high or changing values may prompt repeat testing or further evaluation by a clinician.
Short name
Intact hCG test
Frequently asked questions
Does a positive hCG result always mean I am pregnant?
Why might my hCG test be negative even though I might be pregnant?
Why are multiple hCG results sometimes checked?
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