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The CPT® Code 84163 refers to the laboratory test for measuring pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A (PAPP-A) levels in a blood sample. This protein is crucial during pregnancy as it serves as a biomarker for various potential complications. The test is primarily utilized as a screening tool for pregnant women, particularly between the 8 to 14 weeks of gestation. Low levels of PAPP-A can indicate an increased risk for several serious conditions, including intrauterine growth restriction, trisomy 18 and 21, premature delivery, preeclampsia, and stillbirth. To ensure accurate results, it is essential that a nuchal translucency (NT) measurement is performed via ultrasonography prior to conducting the PAPP-A test. This measurement provides critical information that must be documented, including the fetal crown-rump length in centimeters, the date of the ultrasound, the patient's date of birth, current weight, due date, number of fetuses, the patient's race, and any history of previous pregnancies with chromosomal abnormalities. In cases where the pregnancy is achieved through egg donation, the age of the donor must also be recorded. The PAPP-A levels are subsequently analyzed using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), which helps in evaluating the risk for the aforementioned complications during the pregnancy.
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The PAPP-A test is indicated for use in pregnant women, particularly during the early stages of pregnancy, to assess the risk of various complications. The specific indications for performing the PAPP-A test include:
The procedure for obtaining the PAPP-A test involves several critical steps to ensure accurate results. First, a blood sample is collected from the pregnant woman, typically through venipuncture. This sample is then processed to measure the levels of PAPP-A. Prior to this blood draw, a nuchal translucency (NT) measurement must be performed using ultrasonography. This ultrasound procedure involves measuring the fluid-filled space at the back of the fetus's neck, which is an important indicator of potential chromosomal abnormalities. During the ultrasound, specific data must be collected, including the fetal crown-rump length in centimeters, the date of the ultrasound, the patient's date of birth, current weight, due date, number of fetuses present, the patient's race, and any history of previous pregnancies with chromosomal abnormalities. If the pregnancy is a result of an egg donor, the age of the donor must also be documented. Once the blood sample is obtained, the PAPP-A levels are analyzed using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), which quantitatively measures the concentration of the protein in the blood. The results are then evaluated to assess the risk of the aforementioned complications.
After the PAPP-A test is completed, the patient may resume normal activities without any specific restrictions. It is important for healthcare providers to communicate the results of the test to the patient, as low PAPP-A levels may necessitate further monitoring and evaluation throughout the pregnancy. Depending on the results, additional testing or interventions may be recommended to manage any identified risks. Patients should be informed about the significance of the results and any follow-up appointments that may be required to ensure the health and safety of both the mother and the fetus.
| Short Descr | PAPPA SERUM | Medium Descr | PREGNANCY-ASSOCIATED PLASMA PROTEIN-A | Long Descr | Pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A (PAPP-A) | 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. |
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| 2011-01-01 | Changed | Short description changed. |
| 2005-01-01 | Added | First appearance in code book in 2005. |
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