Laboratory Medicine Program

Human chorionic gonadotropin, quantitative, pregnancy
(hCG quant, pregnancy, Beta HCG, BHCG)

Clinical Decription:
Chorionic gonadotropin (CG) was formerly called human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). CG is secreted by trophoblastic cells of the placenta during pregnancy. Early pregnancy Levels of CG between 5 and 25 IU/L may indicate early pregnancy. Correlation with other clinical findings (e.g., date of last menstrual period, results of pelvic exam, ultrasound results) may be useful in evaluation of early pregnancy. Changes in CG levels Early stages of a normal singleton pregnancy: levels of CG double approximately every 2 days Ectopic pregnancy: levels tend to be lower and have a longer doubling time Multiple gestation: levels tend to be higher than expected by dates and have a shorter doubling time Spontaneous abortion: falling levels Tumour marker CG may be elevated in a variety of tumours, including those involving the trophoblastic, e.g., hydatidiform mole and choriocarcinoma, and some testicular cancers.
<br/><em>Dade Dimension HCG package insert</em>

Method: Magnetic particle ELISA; Abbott i2000

Component Tests Used: n/a

Reference Ranges Used:
Non-pregnant: < 5 IU/L Pregnant: depends on gestational age

Specimen Type: serum or heparinized plasma
Volume: 3 mL (minimum: 1 mL)

Shipping: room temperature or 4C

Special Instructions: Centrifuge and aliquot sample.

Testing Schedule(s): on demand.

Turnaround Time: 1 day

For more information, call 416.340.5227 or 1.866.865.5227