CPT® Code 83003

The CPT® Code 83003 refers to the measurement of human growth hormone (HGH), also known as somatotropin, through a blood test. Human growth hormone is a peptide hormone produced by the pituitary gland, which plays a crucial role in growth, metabolism, and body composition. It is released in a pulsatile manner throughout the day, meaning that its levels fluctuate rather than remain constant. Due to this variability, random measurements of HGH levels are generally not considered clinically significant, and routine screening for this hormone is not commonly performed. The testing for HGH is primarily indicated in cases where there are clinical concerns regarding growth patterns, such as delayed growth or excessive growth in children and young adults. To conduct this test, a blood sample is collected, typically through a procedure known as venipuncture, which is reported separately. The serum or plasma obtained from the blood sample is then analyzed using a quantitative chemiluminescent immunoassay, a sensitive and specific laboratory technique that quantifies the concentration of HGH in the sample.