How To Use CPT Code 82653

CPT 82653 describes the measurement of pancreatic elastase (EL-1) levels in a fecal specimen using a quantitative chemistry test. 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 82653?

CPT 82653 can be used to measure the level of pancreatic elastase (EL-1) in a fecal specimen. This quantitative chemistry test helps clinicians evaluate conditions such as exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI), which can result in poor digestion, abdominal symptoms, weight loss, and nutrient deficiencies. The test utilizes an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method to determine the level of EL-1 in the specimen.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 82653 is: ‘Elastase, pancreatic (EL-1), fecal; quantitative.’

3. Procedure

1. A quantitative lab test, such as an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), is performed to measure the level of pancreatic elastase (EL-1) in a fecal specimen.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 82653 is used to aid in the diagnosis of exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI), which can be caused by conditions such as diabetes, pancreatic cancer, cystic fibrosis, or inflammatory bowel disease. The test measures the level of EL-1 in the fecal specimen, which represents pancreatic enzyme production.

5. When to use CPT code 82653

CPT code 82653 should be used when there is a need to measure the level of pancreatic elastase (EL-1) in a fecal specimen using a quantitative chemistry test. It is appropriate to use this code when evaluating patients with suspected exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) or other conditions affecting pancreatic enzyme production.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 82653, the documentation should include:

• Reason for ordering the test, such as suspected exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI)
• Method used for the test, such as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA)
• Date of the test
• Results of the test, indicating the level of pancreatic elastase (EL-1) in the fecal specimen
• Signature of the healthcare professional ordering or performing the test

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 82653, ensure that the test is performed using a quantitative chemistry method to measure the level of pancreatic elastase (EL-1) in a fecal specimen. It is important to select the appropriate code based on the specific test performed. CPT code 82656 is used for a qualitative or semi-quantitative fecal pancreatic elastase (EL-1) test, while CPT code 82653 is used for a quantitative EL-1 test. It is also important to follow any specific guidelines provided by the payer or coding guidelines.

8. Historical information

CPT 82653 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2022. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A patient with symptoms of poor digestion and weight loss undergoes a quantitative fecal pancreatic elastase (EL-1) test to evaluate for exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI).
2. A clinician orders a quantitative chemistry test to measure the level of pancreatic elastase (EL-1) in a fecal specimen for a patient with suspected pancreatic cancer.
3. A patient with cystic fibrosis undergoes a quantitative EL-1 test to assess pancreatic enzyme production.
4. A clinician orders a quantitative fecal pancreatic elastase (EL-1) test to evaluate a patient with inflammatory bowel disease and symptoms of malabsorption.
5. A patient with diabetes and abdominal symptoms undergoes a quantitative chemistry test to measure the level of pancreatic elastase (EL-1) in a fecal specimen.
6. A clinician orders a quantitative EL-1 test for a patient with suspected exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) and nutrient deficiencies.
7. A patient with symptoms of poor digestion and weight loss undergoes a quantitative fecal pancreatic elastase (EL-1) test to evaluate for cystic fibrosis.
8. A clinician orders a quantitative chemistry test to measure the level of pancreatic elastase (EL-1) in a fecal specimen for a patient with suspected inflammatory bowel disease.
9. A patient with pancreatic cancer undergoes a quantitative EL-1 test to assess pancreatic enzyme production.
10. A clinician orders a quantitative fecal pancreatic elastase (EL-1) test to evaluate a patient with diabetes and symptoms of malabsorption.