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Official Description

Lactoferrin, fecal; quantitative

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

Lactoferrin is a glycoprotein that binds iron and is primarily found in the granules of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell (WBC). The presence of lactoferrin in feces is significant as it serves as a biomarker for inflammatory conditions affecting the gastrointestinal tract. Specifically, the measurement of lactoferrin levels can indicate the presence of inflammatory diarrhea, which may be caused by various conditions such as bacterial infections, ulcerative colitis, or Crohn's disease. The test associated with CPT® Code 83631 is a quantitative assessment, meaning it measures the concentration of lactoferrin in a stool sample, providing more detailed information than a qualitative test. This quantitative analysis is particularly useful for differentiating between inflammatory and non-inflammatory bowel diseases, thereby aiding in the diagnostic process. Additionally, it can be instrumental in monitoring the effectiveness of treatment in patients diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease, allowing healthcare providers to make informed decisions regarding patient care and management.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The lactoferrin fecal quantitative test (CPT® Code 83631) is indicated for the following conditions:

  • Inflammatory Diarrhea The presence of lactoferrin in stool is a marker for inflammatory diarrhea, which may be caused by bacterial infections.
  • Ulcerative Colitis This test aids in the diagnosis and management of ulcerative colitis, a chronic inflammatory bowel disease.
  • Crohn's Disease The test is also utilized in the assessment of Crohn's disease, another form of inflammatory bowel disease.

2. Procedure

The procedure for conducting the lactoferrin fecal quantitative test involves several key steps:

  • Sample Collection A stool sample is collected from the patient following a bowel movement. It is essential that the sample is collected properly to ensure accurate test results.
  • Testing Method The collected stool sample is then subjected to a quantitative enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). This method allows for the precise measurement of lactoferrin concentration in the sample.
  • Result Interpretation After the testing is completed, the results are analyzed to determine the concentration of lactoferrin. This quantitative data is crucial for differentiating between inflammatory and non-inflammatory bowel diseases.

3. Post-Procedure

Post-procedure care for patients undergoing the lactoferrin fecal quantitative test typically involves providing the patient with information regarding the timing of results and any necessary follow-up appointments. Patients may be advised to discuss the results with their healthcare provider to understand the implications for their health and any potential next steps in their treatment plan. Additionally, monitoring may be recommended for patients with known inflammatory bowel disease to assess their response to treatment based on lactoferrin levels.

Short Descr LACTOFERRIN FECAL (QUANT)
Medium Descr LACTOFERRIN FECAL QUANTITATIVE
Long Descr Lactoferrin, fecal; quantitative
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
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.
59 Distinct procedural service: under certain circumstances, it may be necessary to indicate that a procedure or service was distinct or independent from other non-e/m services performed on the same day. modifier 59 is used to identify procedures/services, other than e/m services, that are not normally reported together, but are appropriate under the circumstances. documentation must support a different session, different procedure or surgery, different site or organ system, separate incision/excision, separate lesion, or separate injury (or area of injury in extensive injuries) not ordinarily encountered or performed on the same day by the same individual. however, when another already established modifier is appropriate it should be used rather than modifier 59. only if no more descriptive modifier is available, and the use of modifier 59 best explains the circumstances, should modifier 59 be used. note: modifier 59 should not be appended to an e/m service. to report a separate and distinct e/m service with a non-e/m service performed on the same date, see modifier 25.
GW Service not related to the hospice patient's terminal condition
Q4 Service for ordering/referring physician qualifies as a service exemption
Date
Action
Notes
2011-01-01 Changed Short description changed.
2006-01-01 Added First appearance in code book in 2006.
1992-12-31 Deleted Code deleted.
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