80053

Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)

Code Description

CPT code 80053 is used to report a Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP), which consists of fourteen laboratory tests that evaluate kidney function, liver function, electrolyte balance, glucose metabolism, and protein levels. The panel includes all Basic Metabolic Panel components plus albumin, total protein, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and total bilirubin. All required tests must be performed to report CPT 80053.

When to Use 80053

Common examples include:

  • Annual wellness laboratory testing

  • Liver function evaluation

  • Kidney disease monitoring

  • Diabetes management

  • Routine health examinations

  • Medication monitoring

  • Comprehensive metabolic assessment

Documentation Requirements

Documentation should include:

  • Medical necessity for the panel

  • Ordering provider

  • Laboratory results for all required components

  • Patient diagnosis or symptoms

  • Date of specimen collection

  • Complete laboratory report

Examples
Example 1

A primary care physician orders a Comprehensive Metabolic Panel during an annual wellness visit to evaluate kidney function, liver function, electrolytes, blood glucose, and protein levels.

Example 2

A patient taking medication that may affect liver or kidney function undergoes a Comprehensive Metabolic Panel to monitor treatment and identify potential complications.

Common Billing Mistakes

Common billing mistakes include:

  • Reporting 80053 when all required tests were not completed

  • Billing individual chemistry tests separately

  • Selecting the wrong metabolic panel

  • Duplicate billing of included laboratory tests

  • Insufficient documentation supporting medical necessity

Related CPT Codes
80048

Basic Metabolic Panel

80061

Lipid Panel

85025

Complete Blood Count (CBC)

FAQ

What does CPT code 80053 cover?

CPT code 80053 reports a Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) consisting of fourteen required laboratory tests that evaluate kidney function, liver function, electrolyte balance, proteins, and glucose metabolism.

What tests are included in a Comprehensive Metabolic Panel?

A CMP includes albumin, total protein, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), ALT, AST, total bilirubin, calcium, carbon dioxide, chloride, creatinine, glucose, potassium, sodium, and blood urea nitrogen (BUN).

What is the difference between CPT 80048 and 80053?

CPT 80048 reports the Basic Metabolic Panel with eight laboratory tests, while CPT 80053 reports the Comprehensive Metabolic Panel with fourteen required laboratory tests.

Can CPT 80053 be billed if one laboratory test is missing?

No. All required laboratory tests must be completed to report CPT 80053. If every required component is not performed, the Comprehensive Metabolic Panel should not be reported.

Procedure Type

Chemistry Panel

Test Types

Components

Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)

14 Laboratory Tests