Summary & Overview
CPT 82946: Plasma Glucagon Assay
CPT code 82946 denotes the laboratory assay for plasma glucagon, an endocrine test that measures a pancreatic polypeptide hormone central to glucose regulation. Nationally, this code is used in diagnostic evaluation of hypoglycemia, endocrine disorders, and research into metabolic conditions; it is relevant to clinicians, clinical laboratories, and payers because accurate measurement can influence diagnosis and management plans. Key payers typically referenced for coverage and reimbursement comparisons include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare.
Readers will find a concise overview of what CPT code 82946 represents clinically and operationally, coverage patterns among major payers, and typical billing practice context for laboratory services. The publication also summarizes benchmark considerations, common service settings, and the clinical rationale for ordering a glucagon assay. Data not available in the input is noted where applicable, and the content is presented for a national audience without state-specific guidance.
Billing Code Overview
CPT code 82946 reports a laboratory measurement of glucagon level in plasma. Glucagon is a polypeptide hormone secreted by pancreatic islet cells that stimulates hepatic glucose production. The CPT code represents the analytic service performed by a laboratory analyst to quantify circulating glucagon concentration.
Service type: Laboratory test — endocrine/metabolic assay
Typical site of service: Clinical laboratory or hospital laboratory
Clinical & Coding Specifications
Clinical Context
A 52-year-old patient with a history of suspected endocrine dysfunction presents with recurrent hypoglycemia and episodic hyperglycemia. The treating endocrinologist orders a plasma glucagon measurement to evaluate counter-regulatory hormone function and to help differentiate causes of hypoglycemia (insulinoma, sulfonylurea effect, adrenal insufficiency) or to assess alpha-cell function in diabetes. Blood is drawn into the appropriate chilled tube with protease inhibitors, transported on ice to the clinical laboratory, and a lab analyst performs the glucagon assay. Results are reported to the ordering provider and used alongside glucose, insulin, C-peptide, and clinical history to guide further diagnostic testing or management decisions. Typical site of service is an outpatient clinic, hospital inpatient laboratory, or reference clinical laboratory performing endocrine panels.
Coding Specifications
| Modifier | Description | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
26 | Professional component | When reporting only the physician or professional interpretation component if applicable (e.g., endocrinologist review) |
TC | Technical component | When billing only the laboratory technical component (assay and reporting) |