Pregnancy Screen, Qualitative

Label Mnemonic:	PGPOC
Epic code:	LAB1166
Order form:	Laboratory Requisition
Supply order:	Supply Order Form
Billing:	Billing Policies
CPT code:	84703

Specimen(s):

Urine

Collection Medium:

Clear top tube

Minimum:

5 mL

Rejection Criteria:

Test cannot be shared with any other urine testing. A separate urine tube is required.

Testing Schedule:

24 hrs/day, 7 days a week, including holidays.

Turn Around Time:

1 hour (upon receipt in laboratory)

Reference Range:

Negative (urine hCG below cut-off of 20 mIU/mL)

Comments:

Cutoff is 20 mIU/mL HCG in urine. If results are unexpectedly positive, test using a quantitative serum HCG assay. False negative result may occur when the concentration of HCG is slightly below the cutoff. When pregnancy is still suspected, test using a quantitative serum HCG assay. HCG can be detected in the urine of non-pregnant patients with trophoblastic, non-trophoblastic, and germ cell tumors. Results should always be assessed in conjunction with the patient's medical history, clinical examination, and other findings.

Results from this assay may be falsely decreased in patients taking high-dose biotin (>5 mg) within 12 hours of specimen collection.

Methodology:

Electrochemiluminescence Immunoassay (UIHC Main Hospital Laboratory), Lateral Flow Immunoassay (IRL and North Dodge Laboratories)

Sample Processing:

Submit in leak-proof container.

Sample Storage:

Refrigerate.

Transport Instructions:

Place labeled specimen into zip-lock type biohazard bag; seal bag.
Place completed requisition into outside pocket of bag.
Transport in cooler with refrigerated coolant packs.

See also:
HCG - Serum, Quantitative, Plasma

See Additional Information:
Urine Tests Requiring no Preservatives
Biotin Interference with Immunoassays