Pathology/Lab Coding Alert

Question: What are the correct CPT codes for Celiac Panel and Celiac Infant Panel?

Kentucky Subscriber

Answer: CPT® does not provide codes for a celiac or celiac infant panel. You must report each individual test from the panel separately, using its unique CPT® code.

Few set panels: You'll find 10 specific organ or disease-oriented panel codes in CPT®, from 80047 (Basic metabolic panel [calcium, ionized]) to 80076 (Hepatic function panel). Each panel code lists all the individual tests that the panel must include.

For example: Take a look at 80061 (Lipid panel). CPT® states, "This panel must include the following:

• Cholesterol, serum, total (82465)
• Lipoprotein, direct measurement, high density cholesterol (HCL cholesterol) (83718)
• Triglycerides (84478)."

Other than these 10 panels with their specific test composition, you should report any "panels" that a physician orders by billing the specific tests involved. In these cases, the panel is simply a short-hand for the physician, but doesn't involve a CPT® panel code.

Celiac example: If the physician orders the following tests as a celiac panel, you should code accordingly for each component (coding may vary based on lab method):

• ESR to evaluate inflammation 85652 (Sedimentation rate, erythrocyte; automated)
• CRP to evaluate inflammation 86140 (C-reactive protein)
• CMP for metabolic baseline, kidney and liver function 80053 (Comprehensive metabolic panel)
• Vitamin D for deficiency evaluation 82652 (Vitamin D; 1, 25 dihydroxy, includes fraction[s], if performed)

Flip side: If a physician orders a group of tests that almost fits a CPT® panel but is missing a test or two, you can't report the CPT® panel. Rather, you should separately report the individual tests.