Beta-hCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin)
Beta-hCG is a hormone produced by placental trophoblast cells during pregnancy. It is the basis of every pregnancy test and can be detected in blood as early as 8–10 days after conception. Quantitative serum beta-hCG is used to confirm and monitor pregnancy, detect ectopic pregnancy, and follow miscarriage. It is also a tumor marker for germ cell tumors (testicular cancer, choriocarcinoma) and gestational trophoblastic disease.
Reference Ranges
Male
0 – 5
mIU/mL
Female
0 – 5
mIU/mL
Child
Consult pediatrician
Reference ranges may vary by laboratory. Always compare with the range printed on your lab report.
What Low Levels Mean
In non-pregnant women and men, beta-hCG should be below 5 mIU/mL. Levels in this range with a positive home pregnancy test may reflect a very early pregnancy, a resolving miscarriage, or a biochemical pregnancy. Repeat in 48–72 hours to track the trend.
What High Levels Mean
In pregnancy, beta-hCG doubles roughly every 48–72 hours in the first 8 weeks, peaks around week 10 at 25,000–290,000 mIU/mL, then declines. Slower-than-expected doubling suggests ectopic pregnancy or impending miscarriage. In non-pregnant patients, elevated hCG can indicate germ cell tumor, gestational trophoblastic disease, or rarely other cancers; pituitary hCG can also cause mild elevation after menopause.
Frequently Asked Questions
How early can beta-hCG detect pregnancy?
A quantitative serum beta-hCG can detect pregnancy 8–10 days after conception — typically a few days before a missed period. Urine pregnancy tests detect hCG at higher thresholds (25–50 mIU/mL) and generally turn positive 2–3 days after the missed period.
What is the expected doubling time for beta-hCG?
In a healthy early pregnancy, beta-hCG doubles every 48–72 hours until about 8 weeks. A rise of at least 53% in 48 hours is considered reassuring. Slower rises or plateaus suggest ectopic pregnancy or early pregnancy loss and warrant urgent evaluation — especially if paired with pain or bleeding.
Can beta-hCG be high without pregnancy?
Yes. Germ cell tumors of the testes or ovaries, choriocarcinoma, and gestational trophoblastic disease all produce hCG. Some lung and bladder cancers produce small amounts. In postmenopausal women, the pituitary can produce low levels of hCG (under 14 mIU/mL). Heterophile antibodies can also cause false positives — if hCG is unexplained, urine hCG (which does not show heterophile interference) helps confirm.
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ng/dLThis information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor for interpretation of your test results.
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