CPT® Code 82677

The CPT® Code 82677 refers to a laboratory test specifically designed to measure the concentration of estriol, an estrogen hormone, in the blood. Estriol plays a significant role in pregnancy and is primarily produced by the placenta. This test is crucial for assessing the risk of certain fetal abnormalities, including Down syndrome. Typically, estriol levels are evaluated in conjunction with other markers such as alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), and inhibin-A. Together, these tests form a comprehensive maternal serum panel that aids in screening for potential fetal developmental issues. The measurement of estriol can be conducted using either plasma or serum obtained from a blood sample, which is collected through a procedure known as venipuncture. The analytical method employed for measuring estriol levels is chemiluminescent immunoassay, a sensitive and specific technique that allows for accurate quantification of this hormone in the bloodstream.