How To Use CPT Code 82373

CPT 82373 describes the measurement of carbohydrate deficient transferrin (CDT) levels in serum, which is commonly used as an indicator for chronic alcohol abuse. 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 82373?

CPT 82373 is used to measure the level of carbohydrate deficient transferrin (CDT) in serum. This biomarker is often used as an indicator for chronic alcohol abuse, but it can also be elevated in other conditions such as chronic liver disease and congenital disorders of glycosylation. The analysis method typically involves chromatography to separate and quantify CDT levels in serum.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 82373 is the quantitative determination of carbohydrate deficient transferrin (CDT) in serum. This analysis is performed using chromatography or a similar method to separate and quantify CDT levels.

3. Procedure

1. The lab analyst quantitatively determines the level of carbohydrate deficient transferrin (CDT) in serum.
2. The analysis method typically involves chromatography or a similar technique to separate CDT from transferrin and quantify its levels.
3. Clinicians utilize this biomarker to control and treat alcoholism, as CDT levels remain elevated for up to two weeks following alcohol ingestion.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 82373 is used when there is a need to measure carbohydrate deficient transferrin (CDT) levels in serum. This is typically done to assess chronic alcohol abuse, but it can also be used in the evaluation of chronic liver disease and congenital disorders of glycosylation. The test must be performed by a qualified lab analyst using an appropriate analysis method.

5. When to use CPT code 82373

CPT code 82373 should be used when there is a clinical need to measure carbohydrate deficient transferrin (CDT) levels in serum. This is commonly done to assess chronic alcohol abuse, but it can also be used in other conditions where elevated CDT levels are expected. It is important to ensure that the test is medically necessary and supported by the patient’s clinical presentation.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 82373, the following documentation is typically required:

• Indication for the test, such as suspected chronic alcohol abuse or other relevant conditions
• Method used for the analysis, such as chromatography or a similar technique
• Date and time of the test
• Quantitative results of the carbohydrate deficient transferrin (CDT) levels
• Signature of the lab analyst performing the test

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 82373, ensure that the test is medically necessary and supported by the patient’s clinical presentation. It is important to follow the specific billing guidelines of the payer and use the appropriate diagnosis codes to justify the test. Additionally, consider any bundling or unbundling rules that may apply to this code.

8. Historical information

CPT code 82373 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2001. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A lab analyst measuring carbohydrate deficient transferrin (CDT) levels in serum to assess chronic alcohol abuse in a patient.
2. A clinician ordering CDT testing in a patient with suspected chronic liver disease to evaluate their condition.
3. A lab performing CDT analysis in a newborn with suspected congenital disorders of glycosylation.
4. A healthcare provider monitoring CDT levels in a patient undergoing alcoholism treatment to assess their progress.
5. A lab technician quantifying CDT levels in serum as part of a research study on alcohol biomarkers.
6. A clinician utilizing CDT testing to confirm alcohol abuse in a patient prior to liver transplantation.
7. A lab analyst performing CDT analysis in a patient with a history of alcohol abuse to assess their sobriety.
8. A healthcare provider ordering CDT testing in a patient with suspected alcoholism to guide their treatment plan.
9. A lab technician measuring CDT levels in serum to assess alcohol consumption in a patient involved in a legal case.
10. A clinician utilizing CDT testing to monitor alcohol relapse in a patient with a history of alcohol abuse.