CPT® Code 82104

The CPT® Code 82104 refers to the laboratory test for Alpha-1-antitrypsin (A1A) phenotype. This test is crucial for measuring the levels and types of Alpha-1-antitrypsin, a protein synthesized in the liver and released into the bloodstream. Alpha-1-antitrypsin functions as a serum protease inhibitor, which means it plays a vital role in protecting body organs from damage caused by proteolytic enzymes. These enzymes, when unopposed by inhibitors like Alpha-1-antitrypsin, can lead to significant organ damage, particularly in the lungs, where they can contribute to conditions such as emphysema. The absence or deficiency of Alpha-1-antitrypsin is often genetic, and this test is particularly important for diagnosing early onset emphysema, especially in younger patients. Additionally, it is utilized in evaluating patients who present with persistent jaundice or other signs of liver dysfunction. The test for total Alpha-1-antitrypsin levels is reported under CPT® Code 82103, while CPT® Code 82104 specifically focuses on phenotype testing, which is performed when total levels are found to be lower than normal. This phenotype testing assesses both the quantity and type of Alpha-1-antitrypsin present in the blood, comparing it against established normal patterns. Identifying whether a patient has a homozygous or heterozygous phenotype of Alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency is essential for guiding treatment, particularly since the deficiency can manifest in infancy or childhood. Blood samples for this test are obtained through a separately reportable venipuncture, and the serum is analyzed using isoelectric focusing, a technique that allows for the separation of proteins based on their isoelectric points.