CPT® Code 83088

The CPT® Code 83088 refers to a laboratory test that measures histamine levels in the blood or urine. Histamine is a biogenic amine that plays a crucial role in the body's immune response, particularly in the reaction to allergens and foreign pathogens. It is produced by specific white blood cells known as basophiles and mast cells. In addition to its role in immune responses, histamine is also involved in regulating various physiological functions, including those of the gastrointestinal tract, where it aids in the secretion of gastric acid, and it acts as a neurotransmitter in the central nervous system, influencing various neurological functions. The test can be performed using either a blood sample, which is collected through a venipuncture procedure, or a urine sample, which can be obtained from a random void or through a 24-hour collection method. The laboratory analysis of histamine levels is conducted using specific testing methodologies: plasma and whole blood samples are analyzed using a quantitative enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), while urine samples are evaluated using a quantitative enzyme immunoassay. This test is essential for diagnosing conditions related to abnormal histamine levels, which can be indicative of various medical conditions, including allergies and certain gastrointestinal disorders.