How To Use CPT Code 84146

CPT 84146 describes the analysis of prolactin, a hormone responsible for milk production after childbirth and present in some other clinical conditions. 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 84146?

CPT 84146 is used to analyze prolactin levels in serum or plasma samples. This test is performed by a lab analyst using clinical laboratory instruments, typically automated chemistry analyzers with electrochemiluminescence immunoassay (ECLIA) methodology. The test helps in quantitating prolactin, a hormone secreted by the pituitary gland that increases during pregnancy and stimulates lactation after childbirth. Elevated prolactin levels can also be caused by factors such as pituitary adenomas, renal failure, amenorrhea, hypothyroidism, polycystic ovary disease, antidepressants, and birth control pills.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 84146 is: ‘Prolactin; plasma or serum.’

3. Procedure

1. The lab analyst performs the technical steps of the test using clinical laboratory instruments, typically automated chemistry analyzers with ECLIA methodology.
2. A serum or plasma sample is collected from the patient, with no special preparation requirements.
3. The prolactin level is quantitated using the electrochemiluminescence immunoassay method.
4. The test results are recorded and reported to the healthcare provider.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 84146 is typically ordered for patients experiencing amenorrhea, lactation not associated with pregnancy, or infertility. It may also be ordered if the clinician suspects pituitary dysfunction in male patients. The test can help in diagnosing and monitoring conditions related to prolactin levels, such as pituitary adenomas or hormonal imbalances.

5. When to use CPT code 84146

CPT code 84146 should be used when a healthcare provider orders the analysis of prolactin levels in a patient’s serum or plasma sample. It is appropriate for diagnosing and monitoring conditions related to prolactin, such as pituitary adenomas or hormonal imbalances. This code should be used for each individual test performed.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 84146, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Reason for ordering the test, such as symptoms or suspected conditions
• Date of the test
• Type of sample collected (serum or plasma)
• Test results
• Signature of the healthcare provider ordering the test

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 84146, ensure that the test is performed on a serum or plasma sample. Follow the appropriate coding guidelines for laboratory procedures. It is important to note that CPT code 84146 should not be reported with other codes unless medically necessary and supported by documentation.

8. Historical information

CPT 84146 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 healthcare provider orders the analysis of prolactin levels in a serum sample for a patient experiencing amenorrhea.
2. A clinician suspects pituitary dysfunction in a male patient and orders the analysis of prolactin levels in a plasma sample.
3. A patient presents with lactation not associated with pregnancy, and the healthcare provider orders the analysis of prolactin levels in a serum sample.
4. A healthcare provider orders the analysis of prolactin levels in a plasma sample to monitor the effectiveness of treatment for a pituitary adenoma.
5. A patient with infertility undergoes the analysis of prolactin levels in a serum sample to investigate potential hormonal imbalances.