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Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG), Intact — Serum/Plasma, Mass Concentration

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

Measures intact human chorionic gonadotropin in blood, most commonly to confirm pregnancy and assess early pregnancy.

Quick summary

["This blood test detects hCG, a hormone that is usually produced during pregnancy."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
93769-8
Short code
HCG Intact+B SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
HCG Intact+B SerPl-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
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 produced by the placenta after implantation and is the hormone detected by most blood-based pregnancy tests.

Why might I need this test?

The test is commonly used to confirm pregnancy, especially when urine testing is inconclusive. Serial measurements may also be used to assess how a pregnancy is progressing or to investigate bleeding or abdominal pain in early pregnancy.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein and sent to a laboratory. The laboratory measures intact hCG using an immunoassay, which detects the hormone through antibody-based testing.

How do I prepare for the test?

No special preparation is usually needed. Follow any instructions from your healthcare professional, particularly if the test is being repeated at specific times to track a change in your hCG level.

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

Frequently asked questions

Does a positive hCG result always confirm a normal pregnancy?
A positive result strongly supports pregnancy, but it does not by itself show where the pregnancy is located or whether it is progressing normally. Your healthcare professional will interpret the result with symptoms, dates, and sometimes repeat testing.
Why is my hCG test repeated?
Repeat testing can show whether the hCG level is changing as expected. In early pregnancy, the pattern over time may help evaluate possible miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy.
Can hCG be detected when I am not pregnant?
Yes, though it is uncommon. Very low levels can sometimes occur because of the normal rapid turnover of hCG in early pregnancy, while very high levels can occasionally be associated with certain tumors or other conditions.
  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