Test Name: HCG, QUALITATIVE SERUM, REFLEX BHCG QUANTITATIVE
Test Code: 2121061
Alias: Beta Human Chorionic Gonadotropin
BHCG
LAB9534
Pregnancy test
CPT Code(s): 84703  
Test Includes:

HCG, Qualitative

Reflex bHCG, Quantitative if positive
Preferred Specimen:

1.0 mL serum
Container: SST (gold)
Alternate Container:

Plain Red (no additive/gel)
Minimum Volume:

0.3 mL serum or plasma

This volume may not allow for repeat testing.
Collection Instructions: Allow specimen to completely clot (this can take up to 60 minutes). Centrifuge for 15 minutes as soon as the specimen is clotted. If the specimen is collected in an anticoagulant tube, centrifuge and transfer the plasma into a properly labeled transfer tube. Specify specimen type (plasma) on transfer tube.
Transport Temperature: Refrigerated
Stability:

Qualitative:

Room temperature: not recommended

Refrigerated: 48 hours

Quantitative: See separate test code

Room Temperature: 5 days

Refrigerated: 14 days

Frozen: 12 months at -20C; freeze only once.
Limitations: In patients receiving therapy with high biotin doses (i.e. > 5 mg/day), no sample should be taken until at least 8 hours after the last biotin administration.
Additional Information: If reflex testing is performed, additional charges/CPT codes may apply.
Schedule: Set up: Daily; Results in 24-48 hours
Method: Electrochemiluminescence Immunoassay (ECLIA)
Clinical Significance: Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is a glycoprotein hormone secreted by the developing placenta shortly after fertilization. In normal pregnancy, hCG can be detected in both urine and serum as early as 7 to 10 days after conception. The appearance of hCG in both urine and serum soon after conception, and its subsequent rapid rise in concentration during early gestational growth, make it an excellent marker for the early detection of pregnancy.
Use: Updated 6/28/24

The CPT codes included in this publication are in accordance with Current Procedural Terminology, a publication of the American Medical Association. CPT codes are provided here for the convenience of our clients; however, correct coding often varies from one carrier to another, and HealthLab may bill specific carriers using codes other than those shown. Clients who bill for services should verify the code(s) with the applicable payor to confirm that their use is appropriate in each case.
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