Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) Quantitative Serum/Plasma
This test measures the amount of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), a hormone produced after pregnancy begins, typically detected in early pregnancy. It helps confirm pregnancy and monitor conditions like ectopic pregnancy or molar pregnancy.
["The hCG test is crucial for early pregnancy confirmation and certain medical evaluations."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 108767-5
- Short code
- HCG Intact Msmt SerPl
- Synonyms
- HCG Intact Msmt SerPl
- Category
- chemistry
- 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 Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG)?
hCG is a hormone produced by the placenta shortly after fertilization. It signals the body that a pregnancy is developing and is essential for maintaining early pregnancy. Levels rise steadily during normal pregnancy and can be detected in blood or urine.
How Is This Test Performed?
A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where it is analyzed using an immunoassay method to measure hCG concentration. Urine tests can also detect hCG but are less precise for early pregnancy confirmation.
When Might You Need This Test?
Your healthcare provider may order an hCG test if you suspect pregnancy, experience unusual symptoms (e.g., severe nausea, missed periods), or are being evaluated for conditions like ectopic pregnancy, molar pregnancy, or certain cancers.
What Are Common Uses?
Common reasons include confirming pregnancy, assessing viability, diagnosing ectopic pregnancies, monitoring high-risk pregnancies, or evaluating symptoms of hCG-producing tumors.
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.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
hCG Level
Frequently asked questions
Why do some people need multiple hCG tests?
What do abnormal hCG levels mean?
Can diet or supplements affect 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.
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