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) procedure codes 60600 and 60605) when
done solely to relieve the symptoms of pulmonary dyspnea, including
chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, is unproven.