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HelpTest Code BHCG Beta-hCG, serum, quantitative
Laboratory Code
LAB143
Specimen Requirements
Submit only one of the following:
Preferred
Specimen Type: Serum
Container/Tube: Gold Top (SSTII)
Volume: 5.0 mL
Minimum Volume: 0.5 mL serum
Collection Instructions: Allow specimen to clot for 30 mins and centrifuge within 2 hrs.
Acceptable
Specimen Type: Plasma
Container/Tube: Green Top (Li Heparin/PST)
Volume: 4.5 mL
Minimum Volume: 0.5 mL plasma
Collection Instructions: Centrifuge within 2 hrs.
Specimen Stability
| Specimen Type | Serum/Plasma |
|---|---|
| Ambient | 24 hours |
| Refrigerate | 7 days |
| Frozen | 12 months |
Methodology
Chemiluminescent Immunoassay
Days and Times Performed
24 hrs, TAT 1 day
Specimen Condition
| Gross Haemolysis | Alert / Reject |
|---|---|
| Icterus | OK |
| Lipaemia | OK |
| Others | Not applicable |
Reference Interval
≤ 5 IU/L
The concentration of ß-hCG in maternal serum rises rapidly during early pregnancy.
ß-hCG levels between 5 IU/L and 25 IU/L may be indicative of early pregnancy.
| Post LMP | IU/L |
|---|---|
| 1 – 10 wks | 202 – 231000 |
| 11 – 15 wks | 22536 – 234990 |
| 16 – 22 wks | 8007 – 50064 |
| 23 – 40 wks | 1600 – 49413 |
LMP: Last Menstrual Period
Testing Laboratory
National University Hospital
Clinical Chemistry, 67724346
Useful For
Tumour for hydatidiform mole, choriocarcinoma and testicular cancer
Service Code
31879
LOINC Code Information
21198-7
Alias
Beta-Human Chorionic Gonadotropins
hCG, Beta Subunit (Chorionic Gonad)
Update
Last updated 10/03/2025