CPT® Code 82977 is used to report gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT) testing, a laboratory assay that measures levels of the GGT enzyme in the blood. GGT is primarily used to assess liver function, bile duct health, and alcohol-related liver disease, and to help differentiate hepatic causes of elevated alkaline phosphatase.
This code represents the laboratory test itself, not specimen collection, interpretation, or evaluation and management services, which may be reported separately when appropriate.
Key Facts About CPT® 82977
- Service type: Laboratory blood test
- Provider type: Physicians, laboratories, and qualified healthcare professionals
- Medical services included: Yes—enzyme level measurement
- Specimen type: Serum or plasma
- Test purpose: Liver and biliary system assessment
- Common clinical indications:
- Evaluation of liver disease or bile duct obstruction
- Assessment of alcohol-related liver injury
- Follow-up of abnormal liver function tests
- Differentiation of hepatic vs bone causes of elevated alkaline phosphatase
When to Use CPT® 82977
CPT 82977 is appropriate when:
- GGT testing is ordered to evaluate hepatic or biliary conditions
- There is suspicion of alcohol-related liver disease
- Additional clarification of abnormal liver enzymes is needed
- Monitoring liver function during ongoing treatment
Examples:
- Ordering GGT testing to assess elevated alkaline phosphatase levels
- Monitoring liver enzyme changes in patients with chronic liver disease
- Evaluating suspected alcohol-induced liver injury
Documentation Requirements
To support CPT 82977 billing, documentation should include:
- Patient identifiers and date of service
- Clinical indication for GGT testing
- Specimen source
- Test performed (gamma-glutamyltransferase)
- Test result and date reported
- Ordering provider information
Accurate documentation supports compliance, appropriate reimbursement, and continuity of care.
Reimbursement and Coding Considerations
- CPT 82977 is typically covered when medically necessary
- Coverage may require appropriate diagnosis coding to support liver-related indications
- Specimen collection may be billed separately, if allowed by payer
- Frequency limitations may apply depending on payer policy
- Must not be used for non-covered screening purposes unless payer allows
Always verify payer-specific laboratory testing guidelines prior to billing.
How OptiMantra Supports GGT Testing
OptiMantra’s integrated EMR and practice management system simplifies lab documentation and billing for CPT 82977:
With OptiMantra, providers can:
- Record laboratory orders and results directly in the patient chart
- Review and compare liver enzyme results over time
- Document GGT results within lab records
- Generate compliant, audit-ready lab billing codes
- Maintain longitudinal lab records for clinical monitoring
By centralizing lab workflows, OptiMantra helps practices improve efficiency, support compliance, and optimize reimbursement.
Try OptiMantra for free here!
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