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Pregnancy-Associated Glycoprotein (PA-GP) Mass Concentration

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

This test measures a protein found in the blood during pregnancy, which helps monitor fetal well-being and detect potential complications like preeclampsia.

Quick summary

["This test supports early detection of pregnancy-related health risks."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
77781-3
Short code
Pregabalin CtO Ur Cfm-mCnc
Synonyms
Pregabalin CtO Ur Cfm-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
confirm
Specimen volume
10 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you’re pregnant or at higher risk for complications like preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, or other pregnancy-related conditions. It helps track how your body is responding to pregnancy and whether fetal development is progressing normally.

What Does the Test Involve?

A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The blood is processed to measure the protein levels without specifying a particular method or exact reference range.

What Do Results Mean?

Elevated or fluctuating levels of pregnancy-associated glycoproteins may signal underlying issues, such as placental abnormalities or early signs of preeclampsia. However, results alone don’t diagnose a condition—they’re used alongside other tests and clinical observations.

How Often Is This Test Done?

Results may be checked periodically during pregnancy, especially in high-risk cases, to monitor trends in protein levels over time.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: Pregnancy-Associated Glycoproteins (PA-GPs) are proteins produced by the placenta. While their exact role is still studied, elevated levels can sometimes indicate placental dysfunction or other pregnancy complications. This test is often used as part of a broader evaluation for conditions like preeclampsia, placental insufficiency, or fetal growth restrictions.

Short name

PA-GP Mass

Frequently asked questions

What does a high or low PA-GP level mean?
High or low levels alone don’t indicate a specific diagnosis. They’re typically reviewed in the context of your pregnancy history, other tests, and symptoms. Your healthcare provider will discuss findings with you.
How is this test different from other pregnancy tests like hCG?
PA-GP measures placental proteins, while hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) measures a hormone produced by the placenta. Both are used in pregnancy monitoring but assess different aspects of fetal health.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
No special preparation is needed. You may eat and drink normally before the blood draw, unless your provider advises otherwise.
  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