CPT Code 83088 | Description & Clinical Information
CPT 83088 describes the process of measuring the level of histamine, a substance stored in mast cells and basophils that becomes available upon tissue injury, typically in whole blood, serum, plasma, or urine by a lab analyst.
Official Description
The CPT book defines CPT code 83088 as: “Histamine”.
Billing Guidelines
Perform the Hollander test, which involves using CPT codes 43754 and 43755.
Clinical Information
The procedure described by CPT code 83088 involves quantitation of histamine in various bodily fluids such as whole blood, plasma, serum, or urine. Histamine is a biogenic amine stored in blood cells known as mast cells or basophils and plays a vital role in several physiological processes in the body. With tissue injury, histamine gets released from these cells leading to inflammation. It is also involved in gastric juice secretion and allergic reactions, and affects smooth and cardiac muscle tissue.
To measure histamine levels, the laboratory analyst performs technical steps involving an enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). This immunochemical procedure involves the use of an enzyme and an antigen and antibody reaction to identify and quantitate the analyte. The test uses an enzyme linked to a specific protein, such as an antigen or antibody, as a marker to identify and quantitate the analyte.
The histamine test may be ordered by clinicians not limited to specific conditions, but mainly when the patient exhibits symptoms of low blood pressure or signs of histamine intolerance, such as reactions to certain foods or unexplained headaches. The results of this test can help clinicians diagnose and treat such conditions.
Histamine intolerance is a condition that occurs when there is an excessive amount of histamine in the body, leading to symptoms such as headaches, hives, itching, flushing, and gastrointestinal issues. The test can help identify the underlying cause of such symptoms, which can be addressed by avoiding certain foods or taking antihistamines.
Additionally, the histamine test can also be used to assess the severity of allergic reactions. Allergies occur when the body’s immune system reacts to certain foreign substances, such as pollen or food, producing an exaggerated immune response. Histamine is one of the substances produced during this response, causing inflammation and symptoms such as runny nose and itchy eyes. By measuring histamine levels, clinicians can determine the severity of the allergic reaction and prescribe appropriate treatment.
In conclusion, the histamine test described by CPT code 83088 is a valuable tool used to quantify histamine levels in bodily fluids. This test helps clinicians diagnose and treat a range of conditions related to histamine, including histamine intolerance and allergic reactions. By identifying the underlying cause of these symptoms, patients can receive appropriate treatment and lead a healthier life.
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