How To Use CPT Code 82656

CPT 82656 describes a test that evaluates pancreatic elastase (EL-1) in a fecal specimen. This article will cover the official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 82656?

CPT 82656 can be used to describe a test that assesses the presence of pancreatic elastase (EL-1) in a fecal specimen. This code is utilized when clinicians need to evaluate conditions such as cystic fibrosis, pancreatic inflammation, or tumors. The test is typically performed using a qualitative or semi-quantitative enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 82656 is: ‘Elastase, pancreatic (EL-1), fecal; qualitative or semi-quantitative.’

3. Procedure

1. The lab analyst performs a qualitative or semi-quantitative enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to identify pancreatic elastase (EL-1) in a fecal specimen.
2. The ELISA method utilizes an enzyme-labeled antigen or antibody that reacts with the specific target, causing a measurable change (such as color) to identify the presence and possibly the level of the target in the specimen.
3. Clinicians may order this test to evaluate conditions such as cystic fibrosis, pancreatic inflammation, or tumors.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 82656 is used when clinicians need to assess the presence of pancreatic elastase (EL-1) in a fecal specimen. This test is commonly ordered to evaluate conditions such as cystic fibrosis, pancreatic inflammation, or tumors. It is important to note that this code specifically describes a qualitative or semi-quantitative test, not a quantitative measurement.

5. When to use CPT code 82656

CPT code 82656 should be used when clinicians need to perform a qualitative or semi-quantitative test to assess the presence of pancreatic elastase (EL-1) in a fecal specimen. This code is not appropriate for quantitative measurements. It is important to select the proper code based on the specific test required for the patient’s condition.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 82656, clinicians must document the following information:

• Reason for ordering the test, such as suspected cystic fibrosis, pancreatic inflammation, or tumors
• Details of the qualitative or semi-quantitative enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method used
• Date of the test
• Results of the test, indicating the presence or absence of pancreatic elastase (EL-1)
• Signature of the clinician ordering the test

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 82656, ensure that the test is performed using a qualitative or semi-quantitative enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method. This code should not be reported for quantitative measurements. It is important to select the appropriate code based on the specific test performed. Consider any additional guidelines provided by payers or coding authorities.

8. Historical information

CPT code 82656 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2005. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A clinician orders a qualitative test for pancreatic elastase (EL-1) in a fecal specimen to evaluate a patient suspected of having cystic fibrosis.
2. A lab analyst performs a semi-quantitative enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to assess the presence of pancreatic elastase (EL-1) in a fecal specimen for a patient with suspected pancreatic inflammation.
3. Clinicians order a qualitative test for pancreatic elastase (EL-1) in a fecal specimen to evaluate a patient with suspected pancreatic tumors.
4. A lab technician performs a semi-quantitative enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to assess the presence of pancreatic elastase (EL-1) in a fecal specimen for a patient with suspected pancreatic inflammation.
5. Clinicians order a qualitative test for pancreatic elastase (EL-1) in a fecal specimen to evaluate a patient with suspected cystic fibrosis.
6. A lab analyst performs a semi-quantitative enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to assess the presence of pancreatic elastase (EL-1) in a fecal specimen for a patient with suspected pancreatic tumors.
7. Clinicians order a qualitative test for pancreatic elastase (EL-1) in a fecal specimen to evaluate a patient with suspected pancreatic inflammation.
8. A lab technician performs a semi-quantitative enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to assess the presence of pancreatic elastase (EL-1) in a fecal specimen for a patient with suspected cystic fibrosis.
9. Clinicians order a qualitative test for pancreatic elastase (EL-1) in a fecal specimen to evaluate a patient with suspected pancreatic tumors.
10. A lab analyst performs a semi-quantitative enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to assess the presence of pancreatic elastase (EL-1) in a fecal specimen for a patient with suspected pancreatic inflammation.