CPT® Code 84586

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.