CPT Code 82232 | Description & Clinical Information
CPT 82232 describes the quantification of beta-2 microglobulin levels, which is commonly performed on serum, cerebral spinal fluid, or urine samples, and is a valuable tool for assessing renal disease, monitoring the activity of specific leukemias, and detecting elevated levels associated with Crohn’s disease, sarcoidosis, viral infections, and certain malignancies.
Official Description
The CPT book defines CPT code 82232 as: “Beta-2 microglobulin”.
Billing Guidelines
Use CPT code 82374 for bicarbonate.
Clinical Information
The procedure described by CPT code 82232 involves the quantitative measurement of the beta2 microglobulin using radioimmunoassay. This procedure is typically conducted on samples of serum, spinal fluid or urine, and involves the use of a gamma radioactive tagged isotope to obtain a precise measurement using a gamma counter.
Beta2 microglobulin is an amino acid peptide that is a component of the class I HLA complex, which plays a vital role in the body’s immune system. Due to its significance, the measurement of beta2 microglobulin levels can be useful in evaluating or monitoring various disease conditions such as renal disease, chronic lymphocytic leukemia, hepatitis, and other malignancies.
The beta2 microglobulin test is commonly abbreviated as B2M, B2M, or Beta2M by providers. This test has a multitude of applications in medical research and diagnosis because it can help detect the presence of abnormal protein production and immune system activity.
One of the most significant advantages of this procedure is its sensitivity to small changes in beta2 microglobulin levels. This feature makes it particularly useful in the early detection and diagnosis of diseases, allowing for prompt treatment and intervention.
In renal disease, beta2 microglobulin measurements are particularly useful in evaluating kidney function, particularly among patients undergoing dialysis. Chronic lymphocytic leukemia, a type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow, can also be monitored through the measurement of beta2 microglobulin levels.
The test has also proven useful in the diagnosis and monitoring of viral infections, such as HIV and hepatitis. In such cases, elevated levels of beta2 microglobulin may indicate high levels of viral replication.
In summary, the beta2 microglobulin test is a vital diagnostic tool for evaluating and monitoring a wide range of disease conditions, including cancers, viral infections, and kidney diseases. Its sensitivity and accuracy make it particularly useful in detecting early-stage diseases, allowing for prompt treatment and intervention. Medical providers can abbreviate this test as Beta2M or B2M, easing its use in medical records and facilitating communication among healthcare professionals.
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