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CPT®
82544

CPT® Code 82544

Official Description

Column chromatography/mass spectrometry (eg, GC/MS, or HPLC/MS), non-drug analyte not elsewhere specified; stable isotope dilution, multiple analytes, quantitative, single stationary and mobile phase

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

Column chromatography/mass spectrometry is a sophisticated analytical technique that combines the principles of chromatography and mass spectrometry to analyze chemical substances. In this method, chromatography is employed to separate various chemical components based on their different interactions with a stationary phase and a mobile phase, which can be either gas or liquid. Once the components are separated, mass spectrometry is utilized to capture and measure the isolated molecules as they elute from the chromatography column. This process allows for the precise determination of the chemical structure of the components being analyzed. The incorporation of stable isotope dilution enhances the sensitivity and selectivity of the technique, enabling the quantification of a broader range of chemical compounds. In this approach, a stable isotope of the analyte is introduced into the sample, resulting in an isotopic dilution where the stable isotope combines with a radioactive isotope, creating an isotopically labeled "spike." This spike is then analyzed through gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) or high-performance liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (HPLC/MS) methods. The CPT® code 82544 is specifically designated for the quantification of multiple non-drug analytes, such as acylglycines and essential fatty acids, using this advanced analytical technique.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The procedure utilizing CPT® code 82544 is indicated for the quantitative analysis of multiple non-drug analytes that are not specified elsewhere. This method is particularly useful in various clinical and research settings where precise measurement of chemical compounds is necessary. The following conditions may warrant the use of this procedure:

  • Multiple Analytes This procedure is indicated when there is a need to quantify several chemical compounds simultaneously, such as acylglycines and essential fatty acids, which may be relevant in metabolic studies or nutritional assessments.

2. Procedure

The procedure for CPT® code 82544 involves several key steps that ensure accurate separation and quantification of the analytes. Each step is critical to the overall success of the analysis:

  • Step 1: Sample Preparation The initial step involves preparing the sample by adding a stable isotope of the analyte to be measured. This stable isotope will serve as a reference point during the analysis, allowing for more accurate quantification of the target compounds.
  • Step 2: Chromatographic Separation The prepared sample is then subjected to column chromatography, where it is passed through a stationary phase. During this phase, the different chemical components of the sample are separated based on their unique interactions with the stationary phase and the mobile phase, which can be either gas or liquid.
  • Step 3: Mass Spectrometry Analysis Following the chromatographic separation, the isolated molecules elute from the column and enter the mass spectrometer. Here, the mass spectrometer measures the mass-to-charge ratio of the ions produced from the analytes, allowing for the identification and quantification of each component based on their specific mass signatures.
  • Step 4: Data Interpretation The final step involves analyzing the data obtained from the mass spectrometry. The results are interpreted to quantify the concentrations of the multiple analytes present in the original sample, providing valuable information for clinical or research purposes.

3. Post-Procedure

After the completion of the procedure associated with CPT® code 82544, there are no specific post-procedure care requirements mentioned. However, it is essential to ensure that the data obtained from the analysis is accurately documented and interpreted. The results may require further validation or correlation with clinical findings, depending on the context in which the analysis was performed. Additionally, any necessary follow-up actions based on the results should be determined by the healthcare provider or researcher involved.
Short Descr COLUMN CHROMOTOGRAPH/ISOTOPE
Medium Descr COL-CHR/MS STABLE ISOTOPE DIL MLT ANALYTES NES
Long Descr Column chromatography/mass spectrometry (eg, GC/MS, or HPLC/MS), non-drug analyte not elsewhere specified; stable isotope dilution, multiple analytes, quantitative, single stationary and mobile phase
Status Code Statutory Exclusion (from MPFS, may be paid under other methodologies)
Global Days XXX - Global Concept Does Not Apply
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) 9 - Not Applicable
Multiple Procedures (51) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Bilateral Surgery (50) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Physician Supervisions 09 - Concept does not apply.
Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Co-Surgeons (62) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Team Surgery (66) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Diagnostic Imaging Family 99 - Concept Does Not Apply
APC Status Indicator Items and Services Packaged into APC Rates
Type of Service (TOS) 5 - Diagnostic Laboratory
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) T1H - Lab tests - other (non-Medicare fee schedule)
MUE Not applicable/unspecified.
CCS Clinical Classification 233 - Laboratory - Chemistry and Hematology
Date
Action
Notes
2017-01-01 Changed Guideline added.
2016-01-01 Deleted Code deleted, to report see analyte code or 82542
2015-01-01 Changed Description Changed
2001-01-01 Changed Code description changed.
1999-01-01 Added First appearance in code book in 1999.
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