2025 CPT code 84155
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Laboratory - Chemistry Procedures Pathology and Laboratory Procedures Feed
Quantifies total protein in serum, plasma, or whole blood, excluding refractometry.
Modifiers 59 (distinct procedural service), 90 (reference laboratory), 91 (repeat test) and others as deemed appropriate based on the circumstances may be appended to the CPT code.Appropriate modifier selection should reflect the specific service provided and adhere to payer-specific guidelines.
Medical necessity for total protein testing is established when there is clinical suspicion of conditions affecting protein metabolism or synthesis, such as multiple myeloma, nephrotic syndrome, liver disease, malnutrition, or inflammatory disorders. The test helps assess the severity of the condition and monitor treatment response.
The clinical responsibility lies with the laboratory analyst who performs all technical aspects of the test, including specimen handling, analysis, and reporting of results.
In simple words: This lab test measures the total amount of protein in your blood.Protein is an important part of your blood and helps your body function properly. This test can help doctors check for different health problems.
This CPT code encompasses the analytical measurement of total protein levels in a serum, plasma, or whole blood specimen using various assay methods excluding refractometry.Total protein, a major blood component, consists primarily of albumin and globulin, essential for maintaining fluid pressure and immune function.The test aids in assessing various clinical conditions where total protein levels might be elevated (e.g., Hodgkin's lymphoma, multiple myeloma, chronic inflammation) or decreased (e.g., malnutrition, kidney disease, liver disorders). The laboratory analyst performs all technical steps using methods like the biuret reaction or dye binding, often employing automated equipment.
Example 1: A patient presents with symptoms suggestive of multiple myeloma.The physician orders a total protein test to evaluate for potential paraproteinemia (abnormally high levels of certain proteins in the blood)., A patient with chronic kidney disease undergoes routine blood work.The total protein level is monitored to assess the extent of protein loss in the urine., A malnourished patient is admitted to the hospital.A total protein test is ordered to evaluate the patient's nutritional status and guide treatment.
* Patient demographics and relevant clinical history.* Physician's order specifying the test (total protein).* Date and time of specimen collection.* Method used for total protein quantification.* Result of the test with units (e.g., g/dL).* Interpretation of the result by a qualified laboratory professional.
** This code excludes refractometry as a method for measuring total protein.Results should be interpreted in the context of the patient's clinical presentation and other laboratory findings.
- Revenue Code: T1H (LAB TESTS - OTHER (NON-MEDICARE FEE SCHEDULE))
- Payment Status: Active
- Specialties:* Clinical Pathology* Hematology* Oncology* Nephrology* Gastroenterology
- Place of Service:Office, Hospital (Inpatient and Outpatient), Laboratory