Summary & Overview
CPT 83001: Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) Serum Assay
CPT code 83001 represents a quantitative laboratory assay for follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) in a serum sample. FSH measurement is a widely used diagnostic test in reproductive endocrinology, aiding evaluation of ovarian function, menstrual disorders, infertility, and certain hypogonadal conditions. Nationally, FSH testing is a routine component of endocrine and fertility workups and has implications for laboratory workflows, payer coverage policies, and clinical decision-making.
Key payers covered in this analysis include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find a concise overview of clinical context for FSH testing, how 83001 relates to commonly ordered endocrine panels, and typical sites where the service is performed. The publication summarizes billing considerations, relevant related laboratory codes, and common diagnostic scenarios in which 83001 is reported, such as polycystic ovarian syndrome, amenorrhea, hypopituitarism, and infertility. Benchmarks and policy updates are discussed to inform coding clarity and payer interactions at a national level.
This summary is intended for clinicians, laboratory managers, and billing professionals seeking a clear, practice-focused explanation of CPT code 83001 and its role in reproductive endocrine assessment.
Billing Code Overview
CPT code 83001 describes a laboratory assay to measure follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), typically performed on a serum sample. The test measures FSH produced by the pituitary gland and circulating in the bloodstream and is used to evaluate reproductive endocrine function.
Service type: Clinical laboratory testing
Typical site of service: Clinical laboratory or hospital outpatient laboratory
Clinical & Coding Specifications
Clinical Context
A 29-year-old woman with irregular menses and suspected polycystic ovarian syndrome presents to her family medicine or obstetrics-gynecology clinic for evaluation of infertility and menstrual irregularity. Her clinician orders laboratory testing including measurement of follicle stimulating hormone to assess ovarian reserve and hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis function. A venous blood sample is collected in the outpatient phlebotomy area or clinic laboratory during the follicular phase (commonly cycle day 3) or as clinically indicated. The sample is sent to the clinical medical laboratory (Clinical Medical Laboratory taxonomy) where a lab analyst performs the 83001 assay to quantify serum follicle stimulating hormone. Results are reviewed by the ordering provider; elevated or suppressed levels guide diagnosis and management for conditions such as E28.2 (polycystic ovarian syndrome), N97.9 (female infertility), N91.2 (amenorrhea), or pituitary disorders such as E23.0 (hypopituitarism). Testing may occur in outpatient clinic laboratories, hospital outpatient laboratories, or reference laboratories that support Family Medicine and Obstetrics & Gynecology practices.
Coding Specifications
| Modifier | Description | When to Use |
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