Need help choosing the right code?
Ask CasePilot about procedures, modifiers, bundling, and coding guidance.
Try CasePilot© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.
The CPT® Code 82696 refers to a laboratory test specifically designed to measure the level of etiocholanolone, which is an inactive androgenic ketosteroid. This compound is metabolized from testosterone and androstenedione through the action of the enzyme 5-beta-reductase. Understanding the levels of etiocholanolone in the body is significant because elevated concentrations can lead to various physiological responses, including fever, immunostimulation, and leukocytosis, which is an increase in white blood cells. Additionally, etiocholanolone is known to exert anticonvulsant effects by interacting with GABA receptors, thereby influencing seizure susceptibility. This makes the measurement of etiocholanolone particularly relevant in certain clinical contexts. Notably, individuals suffering from androgenic alopecia, commonly referred to as male pattern baldness, frequently exhibit elevated levels of etiocholanolone in their urine. The test requires the collection of a blood sample, which is obtained through a separately reportable venipuncture, while urine can be collected either by random voided specimen or through catheterization, depending on the clinical requirements.
© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.
The etiocholanolone test (CPT® Code 82696) is indicated for the following conditions:
The procedure for measuring etiocholanolone involves several key steps that ensure accurate collection and analysis of the samples. First, a blood sample is obtained through venipuncture, which is a standard method for drawing blood from a vein. This step is crucial as it provides the necessary serum for testing. The venipuncture must be performed by a qualified healthcare professional to ensure the integrity of the sample. Following the blood collection, urine is collected for analysis. This can be done either by a random voided specimen, where the patient provides a sample at any time during the day, or through catheterization, which involves inserting a catheter into the bladder to obtain a more controlled urine sample. The choice of collection method may depend on the clinical scenario and the specific requirements of the test. Once both samples are collected, they are sent to the laboratory for analysis, where the levels of etiocholanolone will be measured using appropriate laboratory techniques.
After the procedure, there are generally no specific post-procedure care requirements for patients. However, it is important to monitor the patient for any immediate reactions to the venipuncture, such as bleeding or discomfort at the site. Patients may resume normal activities following the blood draw and urine collection. The results of the etiocholanolone test will typically be available within a specified timeframe, and healthcare providers will discuss the findings with the patient to determine any necessary follow-up actions or treatments based on the results.
| Short Descr | ASSAY OF ETIOCHOLANOLONE | Medium Descr | ASSAY OF ETIOCHOLANOLONE | Long Descr | Etiocholanolone | 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 |
|
Date
|
Action
|
Notes
|
|---|---|---|
| 2013-01-01 | Changed | Medium Descriptor changed. |
| Pre-1990 | Added | Code added. |
Get instant expert-level medical coding assistance.