2.0 DESCRIPTION
2.1 The endocrine
system consists of glands and other structures that elaborate internal
secretions (hormones) which are released directly into the circulatory
system and which influence metabolism and other body processes.
2.2 Organs having endocrine function
include the pituitary, thyroid, parathyroid, and adrenal glands,
the pineal body, the gonads, the pancreas, and the paraganglia.
3.0 POLICY
3.1 Services and supplies required
in the diagnosis and treatment of illness or injury involving the
endocrine system are covered.
3.2 Effective
August 31, 2015, off-label use of Sandostatin LAR/octreotide in
the treatment of autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease is
covered.
4.0 EXCLUSION
Carotid body resection (Current
Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes 60600 and 60605) when done solely
to relieve the symptoms of pulmonary dyspnea, including chronic
obstructive pulmonary disease, is unproven.