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Official Description

Prostate specific antigen (PSA); complexed (direct measurement)

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

Prostate specific antigen (PSA) is a protein that is produced by normal prostate cells and is found in the serum. It exists in two forms: free PSA and complexed PSA, the latter being bound to other proteins. The measurement of complexed PSA, as indicated by CPT® Code 84152, involves a direct measurement technique that quantifies the amount of PSA that is complexed with other proteins in the blood. Elevated levels of complexed PSA can be indicative of prostate cancer and are considered to be a more reliable marker for malignancy compared to total PSA levels. Total PSA, which encompasses both free and complexed forms, is measured under CPT® Code 84153 and is often utilized for screening purposes and monitoring treatment responses in patients diagnosed with prostate cancer. However, total PSA alone is not sufficient for a definitive diagnosis of prostate cancer. Additionally, free PSA, measured under CPT® Code 84154, is frequently assessed alongside total PSA to provide further insights into the levels of complexed PSA, thereby aiding in the evaluation of prostate health and potential malignancy.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The measurement of complexed prostate specific antigen (PSA) is indicated for the following conditions:

  • Prostate Cancer Screening Complexed PSA levels are evaluated as part of the diagnostic process for prostate cancer, particularly in patients who may be at higher risk.
  • Assessment of Malignancy Elevated levels of complexed PSA can suggest the presence of prostate cancer, making it a critical marker in assessing malignancy.
  • Monitoring Treatment Response Complexed PSA measurements may be used to monitor the effectiveness of treatment in patients already diagnosed with prostate cancer.

2. Procedure

The procedure for measuring complexed PSA involves several key steps:

  • Step 1: Sample Collection A blood sample is drawn from the patient, typically from a vein in the arm. This sample is essential for the subsequent analysis of PSA levels.
  • Step 2: Laboratory Analysis The collected serum is sent to a laboratory where it undergoes a direct measurement process specifically designed to quantify the levels of complexed PSA. This may involve various biochemical techniques to ensure accurate results.
  • Step 3: Result Interpretation Once the analysis is complete, the laboratory provides the results, which are interpreted by the healthcare provider. Elevated levels of complexed PSA are assessed in conjunction with other clinical findings to determine the appropriate next steps in patient management.

3. Post-Procedure

After the procedure, patients may experience minimal discomfort at the site of blood draw, but no specific post-procedure care is typically required. The healthcare provider will discuss the results with the patient, including any necessary follow-up actions based on the complexed PSA levels. It is important for patients to understand that elevated complexed PSA levels may warrant further diagnostic evaluations or monitoring, depending on their individual clinical context.

Short Descr ASSAY OF PSA COMPLEXED
Medium Descr ASSAY OF PROSTATE SPECIFIC ANTIGEN COMPLEXED
Long Descr Prostate specific antigen (PSA); complexed (direct measurement)
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.
26 Professional component: certain procedures are a combination of a physician or other qualified health care professional component and a technical component. when the physician or other qualified health care professional component is reported separately, the service may be identified by adding modifier 26 to the usual procedure number.
GA Waiver of liability statement issued as required by payer policy, individual case
GW Service not related to the hospice patient's terminal condition
GZ Item or service expected to be denied as not reasonable and necessary
Date
Action
Notes
2013-01-01 Changed Medium Descriptor changed.
2011-01-01 Changed Short description changed.
2001-01-01 Added First appearance in code book in 2001.
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