Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) in Serum or Plasma by Immunoassay Probe
This test measures the levels of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), a hormone produced during pregnancy. It helps confirm pregnancy or detect conditions like ectopic pregnancy.
["The hCG test is crucial for early pregnancy detection and monitoring certain health conditions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 49371-8
- Short code
- HCV RNA # Tiss NAA+probe
- Synonyms
- HCV RNA # Tiss NAA+probe
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- probe-amp-tar
- CPT
- 86803
- 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
Why This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may order an hCG test if you suspect you might be pregnant, especially if you’ve missed a menstrual period. It can also be used to monitor pregnancy progression or check for complications like a miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy. In some cases, it may be done to evaluate non-pregnancy-related conditions, such as certain cancers.
How the Test Works
The test uses a specialized immunoassay probe to detect and measure hCG in your blood or plasma. This method is highly sensitive and can detect very small amounts of the hormone, providing accurate results.
Sample Collection
A blood sample is typically taken from a vein in your arm. You may feel a small pinch when the needle is inserted, but the procedure is usually quick and painless. If you’re pregnant, you may be asked to wait until at least 4–5 weeks after your last menstrual period for the most accurate results.
What to Expect After the Test
After the blood is drawn, you can return to your normal activities. There may be a small bruise or slight discomfort at the injection site, but this usually fades quickly. You’ll receive your results from your healthcare provider.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated hCG levels are strongly indicative of pregnancy, with levels typically doubling every 48–72 hours in early pregnancy. Very low or absent levels may suggest an ectopic pregnancy, early miscarriage, or other non-pregnancy conditions. Persistently high levels beyond expected pregnancy timelines could warrant further evaluation.
Short name
hCG Test
Frequently asked questions
When can I expect results from this test?
What does a positive hCG test mean?
Can I take anything to prepare for this 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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy