Summary & Overview
CPT 82634: Serum 11–Deoxycortisol (Compound S) Assay
CPT code 82634 represents the serum assay for 11–deoxycortisol (compound S), a steroid produced by the adrenal cortex. This laboratory test is used in the clinical evaluation of adrenal function and disorders of cortisol synthesis, with implications for diagnosing congenital adrenal hyperplasia, adrenal enzyme deficiencies, and other endocrine conditions. As a specialized biochemical assay, it is performed in clinical and hospital outpatient laboratories and can be integral to endocrine diagnostic pathways.
Key payers covered in this national overview include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. The publication outlines where 82634 fits clinically, typical sites of service, and who pays for the service at a national level.
Readers will learn the clinical context for ordering the test, how the service is typically delivered, and the payer landscape for coverage and reimbursement. The report includes benchmark considerations, common billing modifiers and administrative elements (where available), and implications for laboratory operations and coding workflows. Data not available in the input are noted where applicable.
Billing Code Overview
CPT code 82634 describes a laboratory measurement of 11–deoxycortisol (compound S) in serum, an adrenal cortex hormone. The service involves quantitative analysis of this steroid to assess adrenocortical function and support evaluation of disorders of cortisol synthesis.
Service type: Clinical laboratory biochemical assay
Typical site of service: Clinical laboratory or hospital outpatient laboratory
Clinical & Coding Specifications
Clinical Context
A typical patient is a 28–45 year-old adult referred by an endocrinologist or primary care physician for serum steroid testing to evaluate suspected adrenal cortical dysfunction. Presenting features may include refractory hypertension, unexplained hypokalemia, virilization, rapid-onset fatigue, weight changes, or signs of congenital adrenal hyperplasia. The clinical workflow begins with outpatient phlebotomy: the provider orders 82634 (11–deoxycortisol, serum). The patient may require specific timing (morning draw) or medication withholding per the ordering clinician. The specimen is collected, labeled, and sent to a clinical laboratory capable of steroid assays (immunoassay or mass spectrometry). The laboratory performs the quantitative measurement of 11–deoxycortisol, documents analytic method and units, and reports results to the ordering clinician. Results are interpreted in conjunction with other adrenal steroid panels, clinical findings, and imaging when applicable. Reflex testing or repeat sampling may follow abnormal results to confirm diagnosis or guide therapy selection.
Coding Specifications
| Modifier | Description | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
26 | Professional component | Use when billing only the professional interpretation portion if the laboratory separates professional and technical components for a send-out assay with physician review. |