How To Use CPT Code 82375

CPT 82375 describes the quantitative measurement of carboxyhemoglobin, a complex of hemoglobin and carbon monoxide, in the blood. 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 82375?

CPT 82375 can be used to quantitatively measure the level of carboxyhemoglobin in a blood sample. Carboxyhemoglobin is a complex of hemoglobin and carbon monoxide, a colorless and odorless poisonous gas. This test is commonly ordered for individuals suspected of carbon monoxide poisoning, especially those with prolonged exposure to vehicle exhaust or fire victims. The measurement of carboxyhemoglobin is crucial in assessing the severity of carbon monoxide poisoning and determining appropriate treatment.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 82375 is: ‘Carboxyhemoglobin; quantitative.’

3. Procedure

1. The lab analyst collects a blood sample from the patient.
2. The blood sample is then analyzed using a spectrophotometer or a co-oximeter.
3. The spectrophotometer or co-oximeter measures the amount of light at a specific wavelength that the blood sample absorbs after a chemical reaction.
4. This measurement quantitates the level of carboxyhemoglobin in the blood sample.
5. The results are reported as a percentage, indicating the proportion of hemoglobin that is bound to carbon monoxide.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 82375 is used for patients suspected of carbon monoxide poisoning or those who have been exposed to high levels of carbon monoxide. The test is ordered by clinicians to assess the severity of carbon monoxide poisoning and guide appropriate treatment. It is important to note that this code specifically applies to the quantitative measurement of carboxyhemoglobin and not the screening test for carboxyhemoglobin.

5. When to use CPT code 82375

CPT code 82375 should be used when a quantitative measurement of carboxyhemoglobin is required to assess the level of carbon monoxide poisoning in a patient. It is not appropriate to use this code for screening purposes or for any other analyte measurement.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 82375, the following documentation is required:

• Reason for ordering the test, such as suspected carbon monoxide poisoning or high exposure to carbon monoxide
• Date and time of the blood sample collection
• Method used for the measurement (spectrophotometer or co-oximeter)
• Quantitative results of the carboxyhemoglobin level
• Signature of the lab analyst performing the test

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 82375, ensure that the test is performed to quantitatively measure carboxyhemoglobin. It is important to use the appropriate code for the specific test being performed and not to report it with other codes that may not be relevant. Additionally, be aware of any specific guidelines or requirements from the payer regarding the billing of this code.

8. Historical information

CPT 82375 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been a few changes to the code over the years, including code changes in 2008 and 2009 to refine the description of the test.

9. Examples

1. A patient who has been exposed to high levels of carbon monoxide undergoes a quantitative measurement of carboxyhemoglobin to assess the severity of poisoning.
2. A firefighter who has been involved in a fire incident undergoes a quantitative measurement of carboxyhemoglobin to evaluate the extent of carbon monoxide exposure.
3. An individual suspected of carbon monoxide poisoning undergoes a quantitative measurement of carboxyhemoglobin to confirm the diagnosis and guide appropriate treatment.
4. A person who has been working in an enclosed space with vehicle exhaust undergoes a quantitative measurement of carboxyhemoglobin to monitor their exposure levels.
5. A patient with symptoms suggestive of carbon monoxide poisoning undergoes a quantitative measurement of carboxyhemoglobin to determine the need for immediate medical intervention.