hCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin)
Abbreviation
hCG
Preferred Specimen
Serum
Minimum Volume
0.5mL
Collection Instructions
Routine Venipuncture
Transport Container
Draw tube or plastic pour off tube
Transport Temp
Refrigerated
Methodology
CLIA (chemiluminescent immunoassay)
Reference Ranges
- Non-pregnant premenopausal women (<50 years)= <1.54 mIU/mL
- Postmenopausal women (>50 years)= <6.67 mIU/mL
Clinical Significance
Responsible for maintaining the function of the ovarian corpus luteum. In normal pregnancy, hCG concentrations rapidly increase with a doubling rate of approximately 2 days.