Interpretation of hCG Levels

1. Positive Pregnancy Test:

- If hCG levels are above 25 mIU/mL, it generally indicates pregnancy.

- Levels between 5 and 25 mIU/mL are considered indeterminate, and a repeat test may be required after a few days to confirm pregnancy.

2. Rising hCG Levels:

- In a typical early pregnancy, hCG levels double approximately every 48 to 72 hours.

- Slower rise in hCG levels may indicate an ectopic pregnancy or a potential miscarriage.

3. High hCG Levels:

- Higher than normal hCG levels can indicate multiple pregnancies (twins, triplets), molar pregnancy, or gestational trophoblastic disease.

4. Decreasing hCG Levels:

- A decrease in hCG levels can suggest a miscarriage or fetal demise.

5. Persistent Low hCG Levels:

- Consistently low hCG levels that do not rise adequately may indicate an ectopic pregnancy.

Clinical Considerations

Ectopic Pregnancy:hCG levels typically rise slower than normal.

Miscarriage:Falling hCG levels can be a sign of miscarriage.

Molar Pregnancy:Extremely high hCG levels may indicate a molar pregnancy.

hCG Testing Methods

Qualitative hCG Test:Provides a simple yes/no answer to whether hCG is present in the blood or urine.

Quantitative hCG Test (Beta hCG):Measures the exact amount of hCG in the blood, which can give more detailed information about the pregnancy.