Lipid Panel

CPT Code: 80061; (and 83721 if Direct LDL Cholesterol performed)

Order Code:
Lipid Panel: C906 (Total Cholesterol, HDL Cholesterol, Triglycerides, LDL Cholesterol (calculated), Cholesterol/HDL-C (calculated), Non-HDL Cholesterol (calculated)

Lipid Panel and Direct LDL Cholesterol Reflex: C909 (Total Cholesterol, HDL Cholesterol, Triglycerides, LDL Cholesterol (calculated), Cholesterol/HDL-C (calculated), Non-HDL Cholesterol (calculated).

If Triglycerides are greater than 400 mg/dL, then Direct LDL Cholesterol will be performed at an additional charge (CPT 83721).

Refer to individual tests for analyte specific information.
ABN Requirement:  No
Specimen: Serum
Volume: 2.0 mL
Minimum Volume: 1.0 mL
Container: Gel-barrier tube (SST, Tiger Top)

Collection:

  1. Collect and label sample according to standard protocols.
  2. Gently invert tube 5 times immediately after draw. DO NOT SHAKE.
  3. Allow blood to clot 30 minutes.
  4. Centrifuge for 10 minutes.

Patient Preparation: Fasting is not required.

Transport: Store serum at 2° to 8°C after collection and ship the same day per packaging included with the provided shipping box.

Stability:

Ambient (15-25°C): 2 days
Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days
Frozen (-20°C): 28 days

Causes of Rejection: Specimens other than serum; improper labeling; samples not stored properly; samples older than stability limits; gross hemolysis.

Methodology: Spectrophotometry, Calculations

Turn Around Time: 1 to 3 days

Relative Risk Range:

Clinical Significance: The lipid panel is used, along with other tests, during routine assessment to determine an individual’s risk of cardiovascular disease. A lipid panel can also be used to monitor the efficacy of lifestyle interventions or medications.

Limitations: Patients treated with N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC) for acetaminophen overdose may generate a false low result for cholesterol. Venipuncture immediately after or during the administration of Metamizole (Dipyrone) may lead to falsely low results for cholesterol and triglyceride. Venipuncture should be performed prior to the administration of Metamizole. In very rare cases gammopathy, especially monoclonal IgM (Waldenstrom’s macroglobulinemia), may cause unreliable results.

The CPT codes provided 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 payer being billed.