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HelpTest Code BHCG Beta-hCG, serum, quantitative
Additional Codes
| Epic Ordering Code | LAB143 |
| NBS code | LBC13263 |
| Service code | 31879 |
Specimen Requirements
Submit only one of the following:
| Preferred: | Acceptable: |
| Yellow Top | Light Green Top |
Processing Requirements
Allow specimen to clot for 30 mins (Yellow Top) and centrifuge within 2 hours
Specimen type: Serum
Volume: 0.5mL
Specimen Stability
| Specimen Type | Serum/Plasma |
|---|---|
| Ambient | 24 hours |
| Refrigerate | 7 days |
| Frozen | 12 months |
Specimen Condition
| Gross Haemolysis | Alert / Reject |
|---|---|
| Icterus | OK |
| Lipaemia | OK |
| Others | Not applicable |
Methodology
Chemiluminescent Immunoassay
Days and Times Performed
24 hrs, TAT 1 day
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
Note: This test is performed on Abbott Alinity system (chemiluminescent immunoassay). Values obtained from this method should not be interpreted against another method as they may not be comparable. Results may be elevated in non-malignant conditions.
Testing Laboratory
National University Hospital
Clinical Chemistry, 67724346
Useful For
Tumour for hydatidiform mole, choriocarcinoma and testicular cancer
Update
Last updated 16/07/2026
LOINC Code Information
21198-7
Alias
Beta-Human Chorionic Gonadotropins
hCG, Beta Subunit (Chorionic Gonad)