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Official Description

Vedolizumab

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The CPT® Code 80280 refers to a laboratory test specifically designed to monitor therapeutic drug levels of vedolizumab (VDZ). Vedolizumab is a recombinant humanized immunoglobulin G1 (IgG1) monoclonal antibody that plays a crucial role in the treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases, including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. The mechanism of action for VDZ involves its binding to the a4b7 integrin glycoprotein found on the surface of T and B lymphocytes. This binding action effectively prevents these immune cells from migrating through the vascular endothelium into the intestinal mucosa, thereby exerting an anti-inflammatory effect. Monitoring the levels of VDZ is essential, as therapeutic activity may be compromised in a significant portion of patients. Specifically, 10-30% of patients may experience inadequate dosing during the induction phase of treatment, leading to what is termed primary non-response. Additionally, about 50% of patients who initially respond to therapy may later exhibit a lack of sustained clinical improvement, known as secondary non-response. Both primary and secondary non-responses have been associated with low serum trough concentrations of VDZ. Factors contributing to low drug levels can include low serum albumin levels, elevated body weight, and the development of antibodies against VDZ. To perform this test, a blood sample is collected, which is a separate procedure from the testing itself. The serum obtained from the blood sample is then analyzed for quantitative levels of VDZ and the presence of anti-VDZ antibodies using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), providing critical information for the management of patients undergoing treatment with this medication.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The laboratory test associated with CPT® Code 80280 is indicated for monitoring therapeutic drug levels of vedolizumab (VDZ) in patients undergoing treatment for inflammatory bowel diseases. The specific indications for this test include:

  • Monitoring Therapeutic Levels: To assess the serum levels of vedolizumab in patients receiving treatment, ensuring that drug levels are within the therapeutic range.
  • Identifying Primary Non-Responders: To detect inadequate dosing during the induction phase of treatment in patients who do not respond to therapy (primary non-responders).
  • Evaluating Secondary Non-Response: To evaluate patients who initially show clinical improvement but later exhibit a lack of sustained response (secondary non-responders).
  • Assessing Factors Affecting Drug Levels: To investigate potential causes of low serum trough concentrations of VDZ, such as low serum albumin levels, elevated body weight, and the formation of anti-VDZ antibodies.

2. Procedure

The procedure for testing vedolizumab levels involves several key steps, which are outlined as follows:

  • Step 1: Blood Sample Collection A blood sample is obtained from the patient, which is a critical first step in the testing process. This sample must be collected in a manner that ensures the integrity of the serum for subsequent analysis.
  • Step 2: Serum Separation After collection, the blood sample is processed to separate the serum from the cellular components. This is typically done through centrifugation, which allows for the clear serum to be isolated for testing.
  • Step 3: Quantitative Testing The separated serum is then subjected to quantitative testing for vedolizumab drug levels. This is performed using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), a sensitive and specific method that quantifies the concentration of VDZ in the serum.
  • Step 4: Anti-VDZ Antibody Testing In addition to measuring VDZ levels, the serum is also tested for the presence of anti-VDZ antibodies. This step is crucial for understanding the patient's immune response to the drug and determining if antibody formation is affecting therapeutic efficacy.

3. Post-Procedure

Post-procedure care following the blood sample collection is generally minimal, as the primary focus is on the analysis of the serum. However, it is important for healthcare providers to communicate the results of the test to the patient and discuss any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan based on the findings. If low levels of vedolizumab or the presence of anti-VDZ antibodies are detected, further evaluation and potential modifications to the dosing regimen may be warranted to optimize therapeutic outcomes. Additionally, patients should be monitored for any signs of adverse reactions or changes in their condition following adjustments to their treatment.

Short Descr DRUG ASSAY VEDOLIZUMAB
Medium Descr DRUG ASSAY VEDOLIZUMAB
Long Descr Vedolizumab
Status Code Statutory Exclusion (from MPFS, may be paid under other methodologies)
Global Days XXX - Global Concept Does Not Apply
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) 9 - Not Applicable
Multiple Procedures (51) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Bilateral Surgery (50) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Physician Supervisions 09 - Concept does not apply.
Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Co-Surgeons (62) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Team Surgery (66) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Diagnostic Imaging Family 99 - Concept Does Not Apply
CLIA Waived (QW) No
APC Status Indicator Conditionally packaged laboratory tests
Type of Service (TOS) 5 - Diagnostic Laboratory
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) none
MUE 1
90 Reference (outside) laboratory: when laboratory procedures are performed by a party other than the treating or reporting physician or other qualified health care professional, the procedure may be identified by adding modifier 90 to the usual procedure number.
26 Professional component: certain procedures are a combination of a physician or other qualified health care professional component and a technical component. when the physician or other qualified health care professional component is reported separately, the service may be identified by adding modifier 26 to the usual procedure number.
Q4 Service for ordering/referring physician qualifies as a service exemption
Date
Action
Notes
2020-01-01 Added Code added.
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