CPT Code 96913 | Description & Clinical Information
CPT 96913 describes the administration of photochemotherapy for a duration of four to eight hours, which is utilized by the provider to manage skin conditions that are challenging to treat or resistant, including but not limited to psoriasis, eczema, and vitiligo.
Official Description
The CPT book defines CPT code 96913 as: “Photochemotherapy (Goeckerman and/or PUVA) for severe photoresponsive dermatoses requiring at least 4-8 hours of care under direct supervision of the physician (includes application of medication and dressings)”.
Clinical Information
The procedure described by CPT code 96913 is a medical treatment that utilizes photochemotherapy to manage severe dermatoses, including psoriasis, eczema, and vitiligo. The provider who performs this procedure informs the patient about the possible risks and benefits of undergoing this treatment, allowing them to make an informed decision.
During the treatment session, the provider administers medication called psoralen a few hours before exposing the patient to UVA light. The psoralen medication increases the skin’s sensitivity to UVA light, which is helpful in treating dermatoses. The provider then places the patient in a specially designed UVA light chamber for a specific amount of time, depending on the patient’s skin condition and tolerance to the treatment.
After the treatment, the patient is kept under supervision for a period of four to eight hours by the provider. This post-treatment care is essential as it helps to monitor the patient’s reaction to the treatment and to ensure that any adverse effects are immediately addressed.
In addition to photochemotherapy, the provider may also perform dressing to the affected areas of the skin as needed. The dressing is intended to provide relief to the skin and to address any discomfort caused by the dermatoses.
Although this procedure can be effective in treating severe dermatoses, it does come with some potential risks. Patients who undergo this treatment may be at an increased risk of skin cancer, particularly if they have previously had skin cancer. The provider must carefully assess the patient’s risk level and determine if this treatment is appropriate for them.
In conclusion, CPT code 96913 describes a treatment that utilizes photochemotherapy to manage severe dermatoses such as psoriasis, eczema, and vitiligo. The procedure, which involves administering psoralen and using UVA light, helps to improve the patient’s skin condition. However, it is essential to weigh the potential risks and benefits carefully before undergoing this treatment. With proper precautions, this procedure can be an effective option for patients experiencing severe dermatoses.
Return to all the CPT codes for special dermatological procedures.
