CPT® Code 83498

The CPT® Code 83498 refers to the measurement of 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP), a hormone that plays a crucial role in the body's endocrine system. This test is typically performed through a blood or urine sample to assess the levels of 17-OHP, which is primarily produced in the adrenal glands and the corpus luteum of the ovary. The measurement of 17-OHP is particularly significant in the context of congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), a genetic disorder that affects adrenal gland function, as elevated levels of this hormone can indicate the presence of this condition in infants. Consequently, the 17-OHP test is often included in newborn screening panels to ensure early detection and management of CAH. In adults, the levels of 17-OHP can be influenced by various factors, including the presence of adrenal and ovarian tumors, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), and physiological changes during pregnancy, particularly in the third trimester. The test can be performed using a blood sample obtained through venipuncture, which is a standard method for collecting blood. For infants, a less invasive approach, such as the heel stick or capillary method, may be utilized to draw blood. The analysis of the collected serum or plasma is typically conducted using advanced techniques such as quantitative high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry or quantitative radioimmunoassay, which provide accurate measurements of hormone levels. Alternatively, a 24-hour urine specimen may be collected and analyzed using radioimmunoassay, offering another method for assessing 17-OHP levels in the body.