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Official Description

Vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP)

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The CPT® Code 84586 refers to a laboratory test that measures the levels of vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) in the blood. VIP is a significant hormone produced by the pancreas, playing a crucial role in various physiological functions. It is known to stimulate heart contractions, which can enhance cardiac output, and induce vasodilation, thereby lowering arterial blood pressure. Additionally, VIP has a relaxing effect on the smooth muscles of the trachea, stomach, and gallbladder, facilitating easier passage of contents through these organs. Furthermore, it promotes glycogenolysis, the process of breaking down glycogen into glucose, which is vital for maintaining blood sugar levels. Elevated levels of VIP can be indicative of VIPoma, a rare type of tumor that arises from the islet cells of the pancreas, leading to excessive production of this hormone. The test involves obtaining a blood sample through venipuncture, which is a separately reportable procedure, and the plasma is then analyzed using a quantitative radioimmunoassay method to determine the concentration of VIP in the bloodstream.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) test, represented by CPT® Code 84586, is indicated for the evaluation of conditions associated with abnormal levels of VIP in the bloodstream. The primary indications for this test include:

  • VIPoma A rare pancreatic tumor that leads to excessive production of vasoactive intestinal peptide, resulting in various gastrointestinal and cardiovascular symptoms.

2. Procedure

The procedure for measuring vasoactive intestinal peptide levels involves several key steps, which are outlined as follows:

  • Step 1: Patient Preparation Prior to the blood draw, the patient may be instructed to fast or follow specific guidelines to ensure accurate test results. It is essential to gather relevant medical history and any medications that may affect VIP levels.
  • Step 2: Venipuncture A qualified healthcare professional performs venipuncture to obtain a blood sample. This involves using a sterile needle to access a vein, typically in the arm, and collecting the blood into a designated tube. The venipuncture procedure is separately reportable and must be documented appropriately.
  • Step 3: Plasma Separation After collection, the blood sample is processed to separate the plasma from the cellular components. This is typically done by centrifugation, which spins the sample at high speeds to separate the components based on density.
  • Step 4: Quantitative Radioimmunoassay The separated plasma is then subjected to a quantitative radioimmunoassay, a laboratory technique that uses radioactively labeled antibodies to measure the concentration of vasoactive intestinal peptide in the sample. This method provides precise quantification of VIP levels.

3. Post-Procedure

After the procedure, the patient may experience minor discomfort or bruising at the venipuncture site, which typically resolves quickly. There are no specific post-procedure care instructions related to the VIP test itself; however, patients should be monitored for any unusual symptoms. The results of the VIP test will be analyzed and reported to the healthcare provider, who will interpret the findings in the context of the patient's clinical condition and determine any necessary follow-up actions or treatments based on the results.

Short Descr ASSAY OF VIP
Medium Descr ASSAY OF VASOACTIVE INTESTINAL PEPTIDE
Long Descr Vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP)
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
GY Item or service statutorily excluded, does not meet the definition of any medicare benefit or, for non-medicare insurers, is not a contract benefit
Q4 Service for ordering/referring physician qualifies as a service exemption
Date
Action
Notes
2013-01-01 Changed Medium Descriptor changed.
1994-01-01 Added First appearance in code book in 1994.
Code
Description
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