How To Use CPT Code 82024

CPT 82024 describes the measurement of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) in the body, which is used to aid in the diagnosis of hormone-dependent conditions or diseases. 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 82024?

CPT 82024 is used to measure the level of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) in the body. This hormone is produced in the pituitary gland and is involved in the activity of the adrenal gland. The measurement of ACTH can help distinguish between primary and secondary adrenal insufficiency, as well as diagnose hormone-related conditions such as Cushing’s disease and pheochromocytoma.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 82024 is: ‘Measurement of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH).’ This test is performed using a form of immunoassay to quantitatively measure the level of ACTH in a serum specimen.

3. Procedure

1. The lab analyst collects a serum specimen from the patient, preferably during the first few hours of the morning when ACTH levels are most stable.
2. The specimen is then subjected to a testing methodology, typically a form of immunoassay, to measure the level of ACTH quantitatively.
3. The lab request form should include the collection time to ensure accurate interpretation of the results.
4. The lab analyst takes precautions to prevent sample degradation before testing is conducted, as ACTH is a labile hormone.
5. The test results are used by clinicians to distinguish between primary and secondary adrenal insufficiency and diagnose hormone-related conditions.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 82024 is used when there is a clinical need to measure the level of ACTH in the body. This test is primarily ordered to distinguish between primary and secondary adrenal insufficiency. It may also be used to diagnose hormone-related conditions such as Cushing’s disease and pheochromocytoma. The collection of the specimen should be done during the first few hours of the morning, and the lab request form should include the collection time.

5. When to use CPT code 82024

CPT code 82024 should be used when there is a clinical need to measure the level of ACTH in the body. It is appropriate to use this code when distinguishing between primary and secondary adrenal insufficiency or diagnosing hormone-related conditions. However, it should not be used for routine screening or monitoring purposes.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 82024, the following documentation is required:

• Indication of the clinical need for measuring ACTH
• Collection time of the specimen
• Methodology used for testing
• Test results
• Interpretation of the results by the clinician

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 82024, ensure that the test is performed to measure the level of ACTH in the body. It should not be reported with other codes unless the testing involves a provoked or stimulated response. It is important to follow the specific guidelines provided by the payer and include any necessary modifiers or additional documentation to support the claim.

8. Historical information

CPT code 82024 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A patient with symptoms of adrenal insufficiency undergoes a measurement of ACTH to determine the cause of their condition.
2. A patient with suspected Cushing’s disease undergoes a measurement of ACTH to confirm the diagnosis.
3. A patient with a suspected hormone-related condition undergoes a measurement of ACTH as part of their diagnostic workup.
4. A patient with symptoms of pheochromocytoma undergoes a measurement of ACTH to aid in the diagnosis.
5. A patient with primary adrenal insufficiency undergoes a measurement of ACTH to monitor their hormone levels and adjust their treatment accordingly.