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Pathology/Lab Coding Alert

Can't Locate an H. Pylori Lab Test Code? Two Clues Point the Way

Published on Fri Oct 15, 2010

Solve CLO test culture code dilemma and other mysteries. With numerous Helicobacter pylori lab tests scattered throughout the CPT pathology/laboratory section and beyond, you might need some help finding the right code. In breath, blood, biopsy, or stool, numerous tests help physicians track down signs of H. pylori infection that can lead to peptic ulcer disease. Our experts break down your coding choices and show that your selection primarily depends on lab method and specimen source. Find Urease Activity in Breath and Blood H. pylori produces an enzyme called urease that neutralizes stomach acid and enables the bacteria to thrive in the gut. Clinicians have turned this feature into a handy test platform -- find the urease and you've found an indication of H. pylori. • For urease activity in blood specimens, report 83009 (Helicobacter pylori, blood test analysis for urease activity, non-radioactive isotope [e.g., C-13]). For urease activity in breath specimens, [...]
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