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The CPT® Code 82239 refers to a laboratory test that measures the total bile acids present in a sample. Bile acids are essential components of bile, which is a complex digestive fluid produced by the liver. This fluid consists of various substances, including water, electrolytes, cholesterol, phospholipids, and bilirubin. Bile acids play a crucial role in the digestion and absorption of dietary fats and fat-soluble vitamins, facilitating their breakdown and assimilation in the intestines. Additionally, bile acids act as hormones that are involved in the metabolism of cholesterol, influencing its synthesis and degradation within the body. Elevated serum levels of total bile acids can indicate liver dysfunction, particularly in conditions such as chronic hepatitis or inactive hepatitis, where the liver's ability to process and excrete bile acids is compromised. For accurate results, it is important that the patient undergoes a fasting period of at least 8 hours prior to the blood draw, which is performed through a venipuncture. The serum or plasma obtained from the blood sample is then analyzed using a quantitative enzymatic method to determine the concentration of total bile acids.
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The total bile acids test (CPT® Code 82239) is indicated for the evaluation of liver function and the diagnosis of liver diseases. The following conditions may warrant the performance of this test:
The procedure for obtaining a total bile acids measurement involves several key steps, which are outlined below:
After the blood sample has been collected, there are generally no specific post-procedure care requirements for the patient. However, it is advisable for the patient to remain hydrated and to follow any additional instructions provided by the healthcare provider. The results of the total bile acids test will be interpreted in conjunction with other clinical findings and laboratory tests to assess liver function and diagnose any potential liver conditions.
| Short Descr | BILE ACIDS TOTAL | Medium Descr | BILE ACIDS TOTAL | Long Descr | Bile acids; total | 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) | T1H - Lab tests - other (non-Medicare fee schedule) | MUE | 1 | CCS Clinical Classification | 233 - Laboratory - Chemistry and Hematology |
| 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. | GW | Service not related to the hospice patient's terminal condition | Q4 | Service for ordering/referring physician qualifies as a service exemption | QW | Clia waived test |
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| 2011-01-01 | Changed | Short description changed. |
| 1993-01-01 | Added | First appearance in code book in 1993. |
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