CPT® Code 76390

Magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS), also known as nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, is a specialized imaging technique that utilizes a standard magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) machine. This procedure employs advanced software to acquire and mathematically manipulate data, resulting in the creation of a spectrum or graph that illustrates the chemical metabolites present within body tissues. The metabolites that are typically analyzed during MRS include lipids, lactate, N-acetylaspartate (NAA), glutamate and glutamine, creatine, choline, and myo-inositol. MRS serves a critical role in the medical field, particularly in the diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing monitoring of various conditions. These conditions include brain tumors, dementia, hypoxic encephalopathy, stroke, head injury, epilepsy, metabolic brain disorders, movement disorders, psychiatric conditions, as well as tumors of the breast and prostate gland. By providing detailed information about the chemical composition of tissues, MRS aids healthcare professionals in making informed decisions regarding patient care and management.