Coding Ahead
CasePilot
Medical Coding Assistant
Case2Code
Search and Code Lookup Tool
CareerCenter
Medical Coding Job Board
Log in Register free account

Need help choosing the right code?

Ask CasePilot about procedures, modifiers, bundling, and coding guidance.

Try CasePilot
CPT®
82965

CPT® Code 82965

Official Description

Glutamate dehydrogenase

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The CPT® Code 82965 refers to a laboratory test specifically designed to measure the level of glutamate dehydrogenase (GLDH) in the blood. GLDH is an important mitochondrial enzyme that plays a crucial role in the metabolism of carbon and nitrogen, particularly in the urea cycle. This test is often utilized as a differential diagnostic tool, especially when other liver function tests yield abnormal results. Elevated levels of GLDH can indicate hepatocytic necrosis, which may occur due to toxic substances or hypoxic conditions affecting the liver. It is important to note that GLDH levels do not rise in cases of inflammatory hepatitis, making this test particularly useful in distinguishing between different types of liver damage. The procedure involves obtaining a blood sample through venipuncture, which is a separately reportable service. The serum obtained from the blood sample is then analyzed using spectrophotometry, a method that measures the intensity of light absorbed by the serum, allowing for accurate quantification of GLDH levels.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The glutamate dehydrogenase (GLDH) test is indicated for the following conditions:

  • Assessment of Liver Function: The test is performed when other liver function tests are abnormal, helping to evaluate liver health.
  • Detection of Hepatocytic Necrosis: Elevated GLDH levels can indicate hepatocytic necrosis due to toxic or hypoxic liver damage.
  • Differentiation of Liver Disorders: The test aids in distinguishing between types of liver damage, particularly in cases where inflammatory hepatitis is suspected.

2. Procedure

The procedure for measuring glutamate dehydrogenase (GLDH) levels involves several key steps:

  • Step 1: Patient Preparation Before the test, the patient may be instructed to fast or avoid certain medications that could affect the results. Proper preparation ensures the accuracy of the test.
  • Step 2: Venipuncture A qualified healthcare professional performs a venipuncture to obtain a blood sample. This involves inserting a needle into a vein, typically in the arm, to draw blood. The procedure is done using sterile techniques to minimize the risk of infection.
  • Step 3: Serum Separation Once the blood sample is collected, it is processed to separate the serum from the cellular components. This is typically done by centrifugation, which spins the sample at high speeds to separate the liquid serum from the blood cells.
  • Step 4: Spectrophotometric Analysis The serum is then subjected to spectrophotometry, a laboratory technique that measures the amount of light absorbed by the serum at specific wavelengths. This analysis quantifies the level of GLDH present in the sample, providing critical information about liver function.

3. Post-Procedure

After the GLDH test is completed, the patient may experience minimal discomfort at the venipuncture site, which typically resolves quickly. There are no specific post-procedure care instructions required for this test, and patients can generally resume normal activities immediately. The results of the GLDH test are usually available within a few hours to a few days, depending on the laboratory's processing time. Healthcare providers will interpret the results in conjunction with other liver function tests and clinical findings to determine the appropriate course of action.
Short Descr ASSAY OF GDH ENZYME
Medium Descr ASSAY OF GLUTAMATE DEHYDROGENASE
Long Descr Glutamate dehydrogenase
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
Date
Action
Notes
2013-01-01 Changed Medium Descriptor changed.
Pre-1990 Added Code added.
Code
Description
CasePilot

Get instant expert-level medical coding assistance.

Ask about:
CPT Codes Guidelines Modifiers Crosswalks NCCI Edits Compliance Medicare Coverage
Example: "What is CPT code 99213?" or "Guidelines for E/M services"