Beta hCG (BHC)
Department: Chemistry
Test Synonym(s): LAB143, BHC, HCG, Beta-Human Chorionic Gonadotropin Serum, Beta hCG Blood
CPT Codes: 84702
Methodology: Chemiluminescent Microparticle Immunoassay (CMIA)
Reference Range: Males: 0-70 years: 0-4mIU/mL; Females: 0-55 years: 0-5 mIU/mL
Tube Type: Red top tube (no gel)
Specimen: Serum
Alternate Specimen: None
Pediatric Requirements: 1 red top microtainer
Volume: 1 mL Serum
Minimum Volume: 2 red top
Temperature: Refrigerated
Stability: Room Temperature: 24 hours; Refrigerated: 1 week; Frozen: 1 year
Reasons for Rejection: Incorrect specimen
Days Performed: Daily
Times Performed: Continuous
TAT: STAT: 1 hour; Routine: 2 hours after receiving in lab
Significance: The Abbott Total β-hCG assay is cleared for use in the early detection of pregnancy only. It is not approved for any other uses, such as, tumor marker screening, tumor marker monitoring, etc. and it should not be used for any other uses.
Special Instructions: It is important to use the same beta-hCG assay for serial monitoring as they are not standardized across platforms.
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