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C-PEPTIDE Serum
Test CodeCPEP
CPT Codes
84681
Preferred Specimen
Gold Top Tube
Specimen Stability
8 hours
Clinical Significance
In vitro immunoassay diagnostic test for the quantitative determination of C-peptide in human serum used to aid in the diagnosis and treatment of patients with abnormal insulin secretion including diabetes mellitus. Serum C-peptide determinations, in conjunction with blood glucose and insulin levels, aid in the differential diagnosis of hypoglycemia. C-peptide levels can be important in diagnosing overzealous insulin treatment since C-peptide does not exist in commercial insulin preparations. In these cases, insulin levels are elevated and C-peptide levels are low. Elevated insulin levels and low C-peptide levels are also observed in patients with detectable insulin autoantibodies and postprandial hyperglycemia. C-peptide levels are better indicators of beta-cell function and capacity than peripheral insulin levels. C-peptide has no insulin-like action but can be measured in the blood in patients receiving insulin to estimate residual beta-cell function. C-peptide levels increase in insulinomas and beta-cell tumors.
