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Official Description

Sugars (mono-, di-, and oligosaccharides); multiple qualitative, each specimen

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The CPT® Code 84377 refers to a laboratory test that measures the presence of various sugar molecules, specifically mono-, di-, and oligosaccharides, in a given specimen. This test is crucial for assessing the levels of different types of sugars, which can include monosaccharides like glucose, fructose, and galactose, as well as disaccharides such as sucrose, lactose, and maltose. Monosaccharides are the simplest form of carbohydrates, while disaccharides consist of two monosaccharide units linked together. Oligosaccharides, on the other hand, are more complex carbohydrates that typically consist of 3 to 10 monosaccharide units. These oligosaccharides can attach to proteins and lipids, forming glycans that play significant roles in biological processes. They are also found in plant fibers and serve as prebiotics, promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria in the large intestine, which in turn aids in the production of short-chain fatty acids and certain B vitamins. The test coded as 84377 is particularly useful for screening carbohydrate malabsorption disorders and identifying lysosomal storage diseases, including mannosidosis, fucosidosis, GM1 gangliosidosis, and sialic acid storage disease. It is important to note that this code is specifically used for qualitative analysis of multiple sugar molecules in a specimen, distinguishing it from code 84376, which is designated for the qualitative analysis of a single sugar substance.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The CPT® Code 84377 is indicated for use in various clinical scenarios where the assessment of sugar levels is necessary. This includes:

  • Carbohydrate Malabsorption Disorders - The test may be performed to evaluate conditions where the body is unable to properly absorb carbohydrates, leading to gastrointestinal symptoms.
  • Lysosomal Storage Diseases - It is utilized in the detection of specific lysosomal storage diseases such as mannosidosis, fucosidosis, GM1 gangliosidosis, and sialic acid storage disease, which can affect the metabolism of sugars.

2. Procedure

The procedure for conducting the test associated with CPT® Code 84377 involves several key steps to ensure accurate measurement of sugar levels in the specimen. These steps include:

  • Specimen Collection - A sample is collected from the patient, which may include blood, urine, or other body fluids, depending on the specific sugars being tested.
  • Sample Preparation - The collected specimen is prepared for analysis, which may involve dilution or other preparatory techniques to ensure that the sugars can be accurately measured.
  • Qualitative Analysis - The prepared specimen undergoes qualitative testing to identify the presence of multiple sugar molecules. This may involve techniques such as thin layer chromatography, which separates the sugars for analysis.
  • Result Interpretation - After the analysis, the results are interpreted to determine the presence and types of sugars in the specimen, providing valuable information for diagnosis and treatment planning.

3. Post-Procedure

Post-procedure care for patients undergoing testing with CPT® Code 84377 typically involves monitoring for any immediate reactions to the specimen collection, especially if blood samples were taken. Patients may be advised on the significance of the test results and any necessary follow-up actions based on the findings. It is essential for healthcare providers to communicate the results clearly to the patient and discuss any further diagnostic steps or treatments that may be required based on the presence of specific sugars in the specimen.

Short Descr SUGARS MULTIPLE QUAL
Medium Descr SUGARS MONO DI&OLIGOS MLT QUALITATIVE EACH SPE
Long Descr Sugars (mono-, di-, and oligosaccharides); multiple qualitative, each specimen
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.
2011-01-01 Changed Short description changed.
2004-01-01 Changed Code description changed.
2002-01-01 Changed Code description changed.
2001-01-01 Changed Code description changed.
1999-01-01 Added First appearance in code book in 1999.
Code
Description
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