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Official Description

Porphyrins, feces, quantitative

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The CPT® Code 84126 refers to a laboratory test that measures the levels of porphyrins in feces, providing quantitative results. Porphyrins are organic compounds that play a crucial role in the formation of heme, an essential component of hemoglobin, which is responsible for transporting oxygen in the blood. The test is particularly significant in diagnosing various medical conditions. Elevated porphyrin levels in feces can indicate potential health issues such as lead poisoning, liver disease, or porphyria, which is an inherited metabolic disorder characterized by a deficiency of enzymes involved in the heme synthesis pathway. To confirm a diagnosis of porphyria, it is often necessary to conduct a comprehensive assessment that includes the determination of porphyrin levels in urine, feces, and blood. The test is typically performed on a random stool sample, which is analyzed using quantitative high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Additionally, the HemoQuant method may be utilized, which employs fluorescence quantitation for testing the stool sample, and this can also be reported under the same CPT® code 84126.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The test coded as CPT® 84126 is indicated for the evaluation of various medical conditions associated with abnormal porphyrin levels in feces. The following conditions may warrant this test:

  • Lead Poisoning Elevated porphyrin levels can be indicative of lead toxicity, which can have serious health implications.
  • Liver Disease The test may be performed to assess liver function and detect any underlying liver disorders that could affect porphyrin metabolism.
  • Porphyria This inherited metabolic disorder is characterized by a deficiency of enzymes in the heme synthesis pathway, and the test helps in diagnosing the specific type of porphyria.

2. Procedure

The procedure for conducting the porphyrins feces test involves several key steps to ensure accurate measurement of porphyrin levels. The following outlines the procedural steps:

  • Step 1: Sample Collection A random stool sample is collected from the patient. It is essential that the sample is collected in a clean, dry container to avoid contamination, which could affect the test results.
  • Step 2: Sample Preparation The collected stool sample is prepared for analysis. This may involve homogenizing the sample to ensure uniformity and facilitate accurate testing.
  • Step 3: Quantitative Analysis The prepared stool sample is subjected to quantitative high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). This analytical technique separates and quantifies the porphyrins present in the sample, providing precise measurements of their levels.
  • Step 4: Alternative Testing Method In some cases, the HemoQuant method may be employed, which utilizes fluorescence quantitation to measure porphyrin levels in the stool sample. This method may be reported under the same CPT® code 84126.

3. Post-Procedure

After the porphyrins feces test is completed, the results are analyzed and interpreted by a qualified healthcare professional. Depending on the findings, further diagnostic testing may be recommended to confirm a diagnosis or to evaluate the extent of any identified conditions. Patients may be advised on follow-up appointments to discuss the results and any necessary treatment options. It is important for healthcare providers to consider the complete clinical picture, including other laboratory tests and patient history, when interpreting the results of the porphyrin test.

Short Descr ASSAY OF FECES PORPHYRINS
Medium Descr PORPHYRINS FECES QUANTITATIVE
Long Descr Porphyrins, feces, 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.
GA Waiver of liability statement issued as required by payer policy, individual case
Date
Action
Notes
2015-01-01 Changed Code description changed.
Pre-1990 Added Code added.
Code
Description
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