CPT Code 84439 | Description & Clinical Information
CPT 84439 describes the laboratory procedure in which a healthcare professional measures the levels of free thyroxine, also known as free T4, in a patient’s serum sample.
1. What Is CPT Code 84439?
CPT 84439 covers a test in a patient’s specimen (usually serum) for free T4 (thyroxine).
This often gets ordered by clinicians for the evaluation of patients with abnormal thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH).
Elevated free thyroxine levels can indicate hyperthyroidism (for example, Graves’ disease). Low levels, on the other, can indicate other types of hypothyroidism (for example, Hashimoto’s disease)
2. Description
The CPT book describes CPT code 84438 as: “Thyroxine; free.”
3. Procedure
The procedure described by CPT code 84439 is one that is utilized in the medical field to diagnose and evaluate disorders pertaining to the thyroid gland. Specifically, this diagnostic test is designed to measure levels of free thyroxine, or free T4, in a patient’s blood specimen. Thyroxine is a hormone produced by the thyroid gland, and its levels in the body have a significant impact on various bodily functions.
During the course of this diagnostic test, a lab analyst will perform the necessary technical steps to mix a patient’s serum specimen with specific substances in order to measure free thyroxine levels. The test may use a method called immunoassay wherein patient antibodies react with reagent antigens to determine the amount of free thyroxine present in the specimen.
While this diagnostic test is not limited to testing for any specific condition, it is commonly ordered by clinicians who are evaluating patients with abnormal thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) test results. Elevated free thyroxine levels may indicate the presence of Graves disease or other types of hyperthyroidism, while decreased free thyroxine levels may suggest the presence of Hashimoto’s disease or other forms of hypothyroidism.
The thyroid gland plays a vital role in regulating metabolism, energy use, and a host of other bodily functions. Disruptions in its proper functioning can result in a wide range of symptoms and complications. Precise diagnostic tests, such as the one described by CPT code 84439, are crucial in ensuring proper evaluation and treatment for patients with thyroid disorders.
Overall, this diagnostic test serves as an excellent tool for clinicians and lab analysts in evaluating and diagnosing thyroid disorders. The importance of proper diagnosis and treatment cannot be overstated, as thyroid disorders can cause significant medical complications if left untreated. Through this diagnostic test, clinicians can provide effective treatment and improved patient outcomes for those suffering from thyroid disorders.
4. How To Use CPT Code 84438
Report CPT 84436 instead of CPT 84438 for a total thyroxine test (both the bound and unbound, or free, T4).
You may want to bill the specimen collection separately if your payer requires that. In that case, you can use CPT 36415 to collect venous blood by venipuncture.
Return to all the CPT codes for chemistry procedures.
5. Resources
https://www.cms.gov/medicare-coverage-database/view/ncd.aspx?NCDId=101
https://www.cms.gov/files/document/chapter10cptcodes80000-89999final11.pdf
