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Official Description

Deoxycortisol, 11-

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The CPT® Code 82634 refers to a laboratory test that measures the levels of 11-desoxycortisol in the blood. This substance, known as deoxycortisol, is a crucial precursor in the biosynthesis of cortisol, which is a glucocorticoid steroid produced by the adrenal glands. Cortisol plays a vital role in various bodily functions, including the regulation of metabolism, immune response, and stress response. The measurement of 11-desoxycortisol is particularly significant in evaluating adrenal function, as abnormal levels may indicate conditions such as congenital adrenal hypoplasia, a disorder affecting adrenal gland development and function. To perform this test, a blood sample is collected through a procedure known as venipuncture, which is separately reportable. The analysis of the blood sample is conducted using quantitative tandem mass spectrometry, a sophisticated technique that allows for precise measurement of the hormone levels in serum or plasma.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The test coded as CPT® 82634 is indicated for the evaluation of adrenal function, particularly in the context of specific conditions that may affect hormone production. The following are the explicitly provided indications for this procedure:

  • Adrenal Function Evaluation This test is performed to assess the functionality of the adrenal glands, which are responsible for producing various hormones, including cortisol.
  • Congenital Adrenal Hypoplasia The measurement of 11-desoxycortisol levels is particularly relevant in diagnosing congenital adrenal hypoplasia, a genetic disorder characterized by inadequate adrenal hormone production.

2. Procedure

The procedure for obtaining the 11-desoxycortisol measurement involves several key steps, which are detailed as follows:

  • Step 1: Patient Preparation Prior to the blood draw, the patient may need to be prepared according to specific guidelines, which may include fasting or avoiding certain medications that could affect hormone levels.
  • Step 2: Venipuncture A qualified healthcare professional performs a venipuncture to collect a blood sample. This involves inserting a needle into a vein, typically in the arm, to draw the necessary volume of blood for testing. The venipuncture is a separately reportable procedure and must be documented accordingly.
  • Step 3: Sample Handling Once the blood sample is collected, it is processed to separate the serum or plasma, which is required for the analysis. Proper handling and storage of the sample are crucial to ensure accurate test results.
  • Step 4: Laboratory Analysis The serum or plasma is then subjected to quantitative tandem mass spectrometry, a highly sensitive and specific analytical technique that quantifies the levels of 11-desoxycortisol in the sample.

3. Post-Procedure

After the blood sample has been collected and sent for analysis, there are generally no specific post-procedure care requirements for the patient. However, it is advisable for the patient to monitor the venipuncture site for any signs of complications, such as excessive bleeding or infection. The results of the test will be interpreted by a healthcare provider, who will discuss the findings with the patient and determine any necessary follow-up actions based on the results.

Short Descr DEOXYCORTISOL
Medium Descr DEOXYCORTISOL 11-
Long Descr Deoxycortisol, 11-
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
CLIA Waived (QW) No
APC Status Indicator Conditionally packaged laboratory tests
Type of Service (TOS) 5 - Diagnostic Laboratory
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) T1H - Lab tests - other (non-Medicare fee schedule)
MUE 1
CCS Clinical Classification 233 - Laboratory - Chemistry and Hematology
90 Reference (outside) laboratory: when laboratory procedures are performed by a party other than the treating or reporting physician or other qualified health care professional, the procedure may be identified by adding modifier 90 to the usual procedure number.
26 Professional component: certain procedures are a combination of a physician or other qualified health care professional component and a technical component. when the physician or other qualified health care professional component is reported separately, the service may be identified by adding modifier 26 to the usual procedure number.
Date
Action
Notes
Pre-1990 Added Code added.
Code
Description
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