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HelpTest Code LAB437 HCG Urine
Clinical System Name
hCG, Urine Pregnancy Test
Sample Requirements
Specimen: Urine
Container(s): Sterile Screw-Capped Container, Sterile Screw-Capped Tube, or Syringe.
Preferred Vol: 1.0 mL
Minimum Vol: 0.5 mL
Notes: First morning urine specimens preferred; random samples okay.
Processing Instructions
Deliver urine to Core Lab Urinalysis Bench.
Reject due to: Non-sterile container (give to Core Lab for determination), insufficient quantity, age of specimen
Spin: N
Aliquot: N
Storage location: Core 5 Fridge
Off-site collection: Ship refrigerated.
Stability
| Specimen Type | Temperature | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Urine | RT |
≤ 8 h |
| Urine | 2-8 C |
≤ 48 h |
| Urine | -20 C or -70 C |
≤ 6 m |
Availability
| STAT | Performed | TAT |
|---|---|---|
| Y | 24/7 | 20 min |
Performing Laboratory
Seattle Children's Laboratory
Department
Department: Core Chemistry
Phone Number: 206-987-2617 (Client Services)
Methodology
Method: Immunochromatographic method for qualitative detection
Analytical Volume: 0.135 mL urine
Reference Range
Lower limit of test sensitivity is 20 mIU/mL hCG
Description
The urine hCG test is a rapid immunoassay for the qualitative detection of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in urine or serum as an aid in the early determination of pregnancy. hCG is a glycoprotein hormone secreted by the developing placenta. After fertilization, the concentration of hCG rapidly rises in both the urine and serum of pregnant people, making the detection of hCG in these fluids an excellent marker for confirming pregnancy. The test utilizes monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies to hCG.
Limitations
Dilute urines (specific gravity <1.010) may not contain representative urinary HCG concentrations.
CPT Code
84703
Synonym
LAB437
HCG U