Specimen: Blood
Results: 2-3 Business Days
Description:
A qualitative hCG blood test gives a postive or negative answer. Production of hCG increases steadily during the first trimester (8–10 weeks) of a normal pregnancy, peaking around the 10th week after the last menstrual cycle. Levels then fall slowly during the remainder of the pregnancy and is no longer detectable within a few weeks after delivery.
Methodology
Immunoassay (IA)
Limitations
Heterophilic antibodies may produce low false-positive results; urinary hCG is negative if “phantom” hCG is suspected. Pituitary secretion may be a source of low level hCG in post menopausal women.
Clinical Significance
This test should be used only to determine pregnancy.
Alternative Name(s)
Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG), Chorionic Gonadotropin