Turnaround times
The quoted turnaround time is from sample receipt in the laboratory, to results authorisation in the Laboratory Information Management system. The times do not include transport of specimen to the laboratory or the administrative process to print and post/email reports. Service users must allow for transport and reporting time when ordering tests.
Clinical background:
hCG is a glycoprotein heterodimer composed of an and a subunit. The subunit is common to luteinising hormone (LH), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), while the subunit is unique to hCG. hCG is produced by the placenta shortly after the embryonic blastocyst implants into the uterine wall. Therefore, an increased level of hCG in the bloodstream is an early indicator of pregnancy and to monitor early pregnancy (ectopic, threatened abortion).
Specimen container paediatric:
Serum (SST or plain tube)
Specimen container adult:
Serum (SST or plain tube)
Minimum volume paediatric:
0.5 mL
Minimum volume adult:
1 mL blood
Sample stability:
Unseparated sample:
unknown
Separated:
1 day at 15-25C,
7 days at 2-8C,
1 year at -20C
Add on test:
This test cannot be added on. Please contact the duty biochemist to discuss.
Reference ranges:
Pre-menopausal: <5 IU/L
Peri-menopausal: <7 IU/L
Post-menopausal: <10 IU/L
Other info:
lithium heparin plasma sample also acceptable