CPT® Code 82271

Official Description

Blood, occult, by peroxidase activity (eg, guaiac), qualitative; other sources

Common Language Description

The CPT® Code 82271 refers to a qualitative test for the presence of occult blood in a fecal (stool) sample, specifically utilizing peroxidase activity, such as that provided by guaiac. This test is primarily employed for screening purposes related to colorectal neoplasms, which are abnormal growths in the colon or rectum that may indicate cancer or precancerous conditions. The term "occult" signifies that the blood is not visible to the naked eye, making this test crucial for early detection of potential gastrointestinal issues. The process involves obtaining a stool sample, which can be collected either in a clinical setting during a rectal examination or at home using a stool collection kit. The kit typically includes multiple cards for the collection of consecutive stool specimens, which are then tested for hidden blood using a chemical reagent. The presence of blood is indicated by a color change on the test card after the reagent is applied. It is important to note that this code is specifically for testing samples from sources other than stool, while different codes exist for other specific testing scenarios, such as the stool samples collected for reasons other than colorectal neoplasm screening.

1. Indications

The CPT® Code 82271 is indicated for the screening of colorectal neoplasms, which includes the detection of hidden blood in stool samples that may suggest the presence of colorectal cancer or other gastrointestinal disorders. The test is particularly useful for patients who may be at risk for colorectal conditions, allowing for early intervention and management.

Colorectal Neoplasm Screening This test is performed to identify occult blood in stool, which can be an early indicator of colorectal cancer or precancerous lesions.

2. Procedure

The procedure for conducting the test under CPT® Code 82271 involves several key steps to ensure accurate results. First, a fecal sample is obtained, which can be done in a clinical setting or at home. If performed in a clinical environment, the physician may collect the sample during a rectal examination. Alternatively, when conducted at home, the patient is provided with a stool collection kit that typically contains three cards or a single triple card. The patient is instructed to collect three consecutive stool specimens according to the kit's guidelines. Once the specimens are collected, they must be returned to the physician's office or sent to a laboratory for analysis. In the laboratory, each stool specimen is tested for the presence of occult blood using a chemical reagent, such as guaiac. A few drops of the reagent are applied to each specimen on the test card. If occult blood is present, a color change will occur, indicating a positive result for the presence of blood in the stool.

Sample Collection The fecal sample can be collected during a rectal exam by a physician or at home using a stool collection kit.
Testing Procedure Each stool specimen is tested with a chemical reagent, and a color change indicates the presence of occult blood.

3. Post-Procedure

After the procedure, the results of the test will be analyzed and reported back to the physician. If the test indicates the presence of occult blood, further diagnostic procedures may be recommended to investigate the underlying cause. Patients may be advised on follow-up appointments or additional testing based on the results. It is essential for patients to understand the importance of this screening in the context of their overall health and any potential risks associated with colorectal neoplasms.

Short Descr	OCCULT BLOOD OTHER SOURCES
Medium Descr	BLOOD OCCULT PEROXIDASE ACTV QUAL OTHER SOURCES
Long Descr	Blood, occult, by peroxidase activity (eg, guaiac), qualitative; other sources
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)	Yes
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	235 - Other Laboratory

QW	Clia waived test
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.
91	Repeat clinical diagnostic laboratory test: in the course of treatment of the patient, it may be necessary to repeat the same laboratory test on the same day to obtain subsequent (multiple) test results. under these circumstances, the laboratory test performed can be identified by its usual procedure number and the addition of modifier 91. note: this modifier may not be used when tests are rerun to confirm initial results; due to testing problems with specimens or equipment; or for any other reason when a normal, one-time, reportable result is all that is required. this modifier may not be used when other code(s) describe a series of test results (eg, glucose tolerance tests, evocative/suppression testing). this modifier may only be used for laboratory test(s) performed more than once on the same day on the same patient.
AQ	Physician providing a service in an unlisted health professional shortage area (hpsa)
GW	Service not related to the hospice patient's terminal condition
XE	Separate encounter, a service that is distinct because it occurred during a separate encounter