How To Use CPT Code 82157

CPT 82157 describes the measurement of the quantitative level of the androgenic hormone androstenedione. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 82157?

CPT 82157 can be used to measure the level of the androgenic hormone androstenedione in the body. This test is often used in conjunction with other hormone tests to evaluate hyperandrogenism or adrenal hyperplasia, conditions characterized by excess androgen production. Androstenedione is primarily produced by the adrenal glands and gonads.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 82157 is: ‘Measurement of androstenedione.’

3. Procedure

1. The lab analyst quantitatively measures the level of androstenedione using a radioimmunoassay methodology.
2. A gamma-radioactive isotope is used to precisely measure minute quantities of androstenedione by tagging an antigen, which is then quantitated by a gamma counter.
3. The test can be performed on serum, whole blood, amniotic fluid, or saliva.
4. Androstenedione is produced in the adrenal glands and gonads and serves as a precursor for other hormones.
5. Providers order this test to evaluate patients suspected of Cushing’s syndrome and other adrenal disorders.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 82157 is used when there is a clinical suspicion of hyperandrogenism or adrenal hyperplasia. It is often ordered in conjunction with other hormone tests to aid in the diagnosis and management of these conditions. The test can be performed on serum, whole blood, amniotic fluid, or saliva samples.

5. When to use CPT code 82157

CPT code 82157 should be used when there is a clinical indication to measure the level of androstenedione in the body. It is typically ordered as part of a comprehensive hormone panel to evaluate patients suspected of hyperandrogenism or adrenal disorders. This code should not be used for routine screening purposes.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 82157, the following documentation is required:

• Clinical indication for the test, such as suspicion of hyperandrogenism or adrenal disorders
• Type of sample used for testing (serum, whole blood, amniotic fluid, or saliva)
• Date and time of the test
• Results of the androstenedione measurement
• Signature of the lab analyst performing the test

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 82157, ensure that the test is performed by a qualified lab analyst using the appropriate methodology. The code should only be reported when there is a clinical indication for the test. It is important to follow any specific billing guidelines provided by the payer. CPT code 82157 should not be reported with other codes unless medically necessary and supported by documentation.

8. Historical information

CPT 82157 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A patient with suspected adrenal hyperplasia undergoes a test to measure the level of androstenedione in their serum.
2. A pregnant woman has her amniotic fluid tested for androstenedione levels as part of a comprehensive hormone evaluation.
3. A patient with symptoms of hyperandrogenism undergoes a saliva test to measure their androstenedione levels.
4. A healthcare provider orders a whole blood test for androstenedione in a patient with suspected Cushing’s syndrome.
5. A patient with a history of adrenal disorders has their serum androstenedione levels monitored over time to assess treatment effectiveness.