How To Use CPT Code 80170

CPT 80170 describes the laboratory test used to analyze the amount of gentamicin, an antibiotic, present in a patient’s specimen. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 80170?

CPT 80170 is a laboratory test that quantitates the amount of gentamicin, an antibiotic, present in a patient’s specimen. This test is performed by a lab analyst to ensure that the correct level of gentamicin is present in the patient’s body. The most common specimen used for this test is serum, and the most common method of detection is through an immunoassay method such as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 80170 is: ‘Gentamicin; quantitative.’

3. Procedure

1. The lab analyst performs all technical steps to measure the level of gentamicin present in the patient’s specimen.
2. The most common specimen used for this test is serum, although other specimens may be used.
3. The lab analyst may utilize an immunoassay method, such as ELISA, to detect the antigen-antibody reaction and quantify the result.
4. The test may involve various steps, including reacting the specimen with test antibodies, incubating the mixture, adding an agent to detect the antigen-antibody complex, and quantifying the result.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 80170 may be ordered by a clinician to ensure that the patient is receiving the correct dose of gentamicin for a bacterial infection. The test is not limited to a specific condition and can be used to monitor gentamicin levels in patients of all ages.

5. When to use CPT code 80170

CPT code 80170 should be used when a clinician orders a quantitative test to measure the level of gentamicin in a patient’s specimen. This test is typically ordered to ensure that the patient is receiving the appropriate dose of gentamicin and to monitor the levels of the antibiotic in the body.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 80170, the clinician must document the following information:

• Reason for ordering the test and the clinical indication
• Type of specimen collected (e.g., serum)
• Date and time of specimen collection
• Method used for detection and quantification
• Test results and interpretation
• Signature of the clinician ordering the test

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 80170, ensure that the test is performed by a qualified lab analyst and that the necessary documentation is provided. It is important to follow the specific guidelines set by the payer regarding the billing of this code. Some payers may also separately reimburse for the collection of the specimen using a separate code, such as 36415.

8. Historical information

CPT 80170 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1993. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A clinician orders CPT 80170 to measure the level of gentamicin in a patient’s serum to ensure the correct dosage of the antibiotic for a bacterial infection.
2. A pediatrician orders CPT 80170 to monitor the gentamicin levels in a newborn baby receiving treatment for a suspected infection.
3. An infectious disease specialist orders CPT 80170 to assess the effectiveness of gentamicin therapy in a patient with a severe bacterial infection.
4. A nephrologist orders CPT 80170 to monitor the gentamicin levels in a patient with renal impairment to prevent potential toxicity.
5. An oncologist orders CPT 80170 to adjust the dosage of gentamicin in a cancer patient undergoing chemotherapy to minimize the risk of infection.