A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z #

Thyroid Cascading Reflex

Test Code
THYCR


Alias/See Also
18698, 15102X


CPT Codes
84443

Includes
The Thyroid Cascading Reflex begins with a TSH.
If the TSH result is abnormal, then T4, Free will be performed at an additional charge (CPT code(s): 84439).
If the TSH is elevated and the T4, Free is either normal or low, then TPO Antibodies will be performed at an additional charge (CPT code(s): 86376).
If the TSH is low and the T4, Free is either normal or low, then T3, Free will be performed at an additional charge (CPT code(s): 84481).

Note: This assay should only be ordered on patients 1 year of age or older. Orders on patients younger than 1 year will have a TSH only performed.


Preferred Specimen
4 mL serum collected in a red-top tube (no gel)


Patient Preparation
Specimen collection after fluorescein dye angiography should be delayed for at least 3 days. For patients on hemodialysis, specimen collection should be delayed for 2 weeks after angiography. According to the assay manufacturer Siemens: samples containing fluorescein can produce falsely depressed values.

Minimum Volume
2 mL


Transport Temperature
Room temperature


Specimen Stability
Room temperature: 7 days
Refrigerated: 7 days
Frozen: 28 days


Methodology
Immunoassay (IA)

Setup Schedule
Set up: Daily; Report available: 2 days


Clinical Significance
The Thyroid Cascading Reflex order code that will act as an aid to physicians in the diagnosis of common adult thyroid disorders. The initial results of a TSH will determine further reflex orders of T4, Free, TPO Antibodies and T3, Free orders and provided an interpretation based upon the results of the reflexed tests.


Performing Laboratory
Quest Diagnostics Nichols Institute
14225 Newbrook Drive
Chantilly, VA 20153




The CPT Codes provided in this document are based on AMA guidelines and are for informational purposes only. CPT coding is the sole responsibility of the billing party. Please direct any questions regarding coding to the payor being billed. Any Profile/panel component may be ordered separately. Reflex tests are performed at an additional charge.