CPT® Code 84146

The CPT® Code 84146 refers to a laboratory test specifically designed to measure the levels of prolactin in the blood. Prolactin is a hormone that is primarily produced by the pituitary gland, which is located at the base of the brain. This hormone plays a crucial role in various bodily functions, particularly in regulating lactation, as it stimulates breast milk production in women during and after pregnancy. It is important to note that prolactin levels can fluctuate naturally throughout the day and night, reflecting the body's circadian rhythms. Additionally, certain physiological conditions can lead to normal elevations in prolactin levels, such as during pregnancy, lactation, or periods of physical or emotional stress. Abnormal elevations in prolactin levels may indicate underlying health issues, including kidney and liver diseases, hypothyroidism, and the presence of tumors in the pituitary gland, known as prolactinomas. Conversely, decreased prolactin levels may suggest damage to the pituitary gland itself. The prolactin test is often ordered in clinical settings to investigate various symptoms, including nipple discharge, infertility in both men and women, and erectile dysfunction in men. Furthermore, this code can also be utilized to report specific tests related to prolactin-secreting tumors, such as prolactin macroadenoma (dilution study), and thyroid releasing hormone stimulation of prolactin, which involves measuring prolactin levels at multiple time intervals (0, 30, 60, and 90 minutes). The blood sample required for this test is obtained through a procedure known as venipuncture, which is separately reportable. The serum or plasma obtained from the blood sample is then analyzed using a quantitative chemiluminescent immunoassay, a sensitive and specific method for measuring hormone levels in the laboratory.