CPT® Code 83993

The CPT® Code 83993 refers to the measurement of calprotectin in a fecal sample. Calprotectin is a protein that binds calcium and is predominantly found in neutrophils, a type of white blood cell that plays a crucial role in the body's immune response. When there is inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract, neutrophils migrate into the bowel lumen, leading to an increase in calprotectin levels in the stool. Therefore, measuring calprotectin levels can provide valuable insights into the presence of inflammatory diseases affecting the gastrointestinal system, such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Elevated levels of calprotectin in feces serve as a significant indicator of inflammation, helping healthcare providers differentiate between inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and functional bowel disorders, which may not involve inflammation. The test is conducted using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) technique, a widely used laboratory method that allows for the sensitive detection and quantification of proteins in biological samples.