A comparison of serial quantitative serum and urine tests in early pregnancy

Serial urinary beta human chorionic gonadotropin (beta-hCG) immunoassay was performed on 60 patients during early pregnancy. Results were expressed as tube dilutions positive and were compared with quantitative serum beta human chorionic gonadotropin radioimmunoassay (beta-hCG-RIA) values. The parallel rise of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) measured by serum beta-hCG-RIA and a macroflocculation beta-specific urinary immunoassay in early pregnancy was confirmed. The ability of each to predict abortion prior to the onset of patient symptoms or clinical signs of disturbed gestation was quantitated. Results were expressed for each method according to standard regression lines or doubling time for individuals. Utilizing either statistical method, urinary testing was as accurate as serum testing for the prediction of normal pregnancy (about 90% for each). Serum testing was 78% correct in predicting abortion; urinary testing was 63% accurate.