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LOINC Code 78992-5: Melatonin (Sal) [Mass/Vol]

78992-5 is a LOINC code used to identify Melatonin (Sal) [Mass/Vol] in laboratory and clinical observation data. You may see this code in lab systems, lab reports, EHR exports, interoperability feeds, or other structured clinical data exchanges. LOINC codes identify tests, measurements, observations, survey items, and clinical questions in a standardized way. It is associated with the component Melatonin. It is commonly used with the system or sample type Saliva.

Reviewed by HealthAssure Clinical TeamUpdated 25 May 2026

What is this code?

LOINC codes identify tests, measurements, observations, survey items, and clinical questions in a standardized way. It is associated with the component Melatonin. It is commonly used with the system or sample type Saliva.

When is it used?

  • Used in lab systems, EHRs, and clinical data exchange.
  • May identify a test, observation, survey item, or clinical document request rather than a diagnosis.
  • Status: ACTIVE
  • Order vs observation: Both

What it does not mean

  • The code identifies the observation or test, not the actual result.

Key facts

Melatonin [Mass/volume] in Saliva (oral fluid)
Melatonin
Melatonin assays are used to evaluate the phase position of the biological clock and alignment of an individual's circadian rhythm with a typical 24-hour sleep-wake cycle. Saliva melatonin levels are relatively unaffected by changes in posture and at any given time, the saliva concentration is approximately 30% of that in the plasma. Given that saliva sampling is noninvasive and painless, saliva provides a convenient alternative to plasma. Timed melatonin measurement is used to identify sleep-wake cycle disorders, and melatonin can also be used to determine pineal gland function and help in the diagnosis of pineal tumors. [PMID16761382]
Chemistry; Level; Mass concentration; Oral fluid; Point in time; QNT; Quan; Quant; Quantitative; Random; Sal

Where you may see this code

You may see this code in lab systems, lab reports, EHR exports, interoperability feeds, or other structured clinical data exchanges.

Common synonyms

Melatonin (Sal) [Mass/Vol]Melatonin [Mass/volume] in Saliva (oral fluid)Melatonin Sal-mCncMelatoninCHEMMelatonin, SalivaMCnc

Frequently asked questions

Code details

Code78992-5
SystemLOINC
Display nameMelatonin (Sal) [Mass/Vol]
DescriptionMelatonin
Short nameMelatonin Sal-mCnc
ComponentMelatonin
PropertyMCnc
TimingPt
System (specimen)Saliva
ScaleQn
ClassCHEM
Example unitspg/mL
StatusACTIVE
Order/ObservationBoth

Flags

BillableNo
Valid clinical useNo

Source

SourceLOINC
Version2.82
Releasemain
First released2.54
Last changed2.54

Consumer names

Melatonin, Saliva

Part names

MelatoninMCncPtSalivaQnMass ConcentrationPoint in time (spot)

About this content

This page is prepared by HealthAssure's clinical team using official coding standards from LOINC. AI tools assist with drafting explanations, which are then reviewed and verified by healthcare professionals for accuracy. This content is for informational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice. Meet our team.

LOINC Code 78992-5 | HealthAssure