LOINC Code 80538-2: Methylphenidate (Hair) [Mass/Mass]
80538-2 is a LOINC code used to identify Methylphenidate (Hair) [Mass/Mass] 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 Methylphenidate. It is commonly used with the system or sample type Hair.
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 Methylphenidate. It is commonly used with the system or sample type Hair.
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
- Methylphenidate [Mass/mass] in Hair
- Methylphenidate
- Hair analysis provides a longer surveillance window for drug use than other methods because hair retains drugs longer (weeks or months, compared with days detectable in blood or urine). Collecting hair specimens also is less invasive than urine or blood sampling. Drawbacks for hair analysis include expense, and possible environmental contamination of the specimen.
- Addiction; DRUG/TOXICOLOGY; Drugs; Drugs of abuse; Har; Illicit; Mass Content; Me-phenidate; Point in time; PotentialForAbuse; QNT; Quan; Quant; Quantitative; Random; Ritalin
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.
Related SNOMED CT concepts
Related observations and tests
Common synonyms
Frequently asked questions
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.