How To Use CPT Code 82104

CPT 82104 describes the testing procedure for determining the presence of the alpha-1-antitrypsin phenotype. This article will cover the description, official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 82104?

CPT 82104 is used to determine the presence of the alpha-1-antitrypsin phenotype through testing. This phenotype is associated with conditions such as chronic obstructive lung disease, hepatoma, or liver disease. The test is performed by a lab analyst using techniques like radial immunodiffusion or gel diffusion to detect the presence of the phenotype.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 82104 is: ‘Alpha-1-antitrypsin; phenotype.’

3. Procedure

1. The lab analyst performs testing using techniques like radial immunodiffusion or gel diffusion.
2. The sample antigen diffuses through a gel medium until it reaches equivalency with its counterpart antibody, forming a visual precipitation.
3. The analyst interprets and reports the results, determining the presence of the alpha-1-antitrypsin phenotype.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 82104 is used when there is a need to determine the presence of the alpha-1-antitrypsin phenotype. This phenotype is associated with conditions like chronic obstructive lung disease, hepatoma, or liver disease. The test is performed by a lab analyst using techniques like radial immunodiffusion or gel diffusion.

5. When to use CPT code 82104

CPT code 82104 should be used when there is a clinical need to determine the presence of the alpha-1-antitrypsin phenotype. It is not appropriate to use this code for other purposes or when testing for different phenotypes.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 82104, the documentation should include:

• Indication of the need for testing the alpha-1-antitrypsin phenotype
• Details of the testing procedure performed, including the technique used
• Interpretation and reporting of the results

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 82104, ensure that the testing is performed by a lab analyst using techniques like radial immunodiffusion or gel diffusion. There are no specific guidelines regarding reporting this code with other codes.

8. Historical information

CPT 82104 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1993. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A lab analyst performs testing to determine the presence of the alpha-1-antitrypsin phenotype in a patient with chronic obstructive lung disease.
2. Using radial immunodiffusion, a lab analyst detects the alpha-1-antitrypsin phenotype in a patient with hepatoma.
3. A gel diffusion test confirms the presence of the alpha-1-antitrypsin phenotype in a patient with liver disease.
4. A lab analyst performs testing to determine the alpha-1-antitrypsin phenotype in a patient with both chronic obstructive lung disease and hepatoma.
5. Using gel diffusion, a lab analyst identifies the alpha-1-antitrypsin phenotype in a patient with liver disease and chronic obstructive lung disease.
6. A patient undergoes testing to determine the presence of the alpha-1-antitrypsin phenotype, which is associated with chronic obstructive lung disease.
7. A lab analyst performs radial immunodiffusion to detect the alpha-1-antitrypsin phenotype in a patient with hepatoma.
8. Using gel diffusion, a lab analyst confirms the presence of the alpha-1-antitrypsin phenotype in a patient with liver disease.
9. A patient with both chronic obstructive lung disease and hepatoma undergoes testing to determine the alpha-1-antitrypsin phenotype.
10. A lab analyst performs testing to identify the alpha-1-antitrypsin phenotype in a patient with liver disease and chronic obstructive lung disease.