How To Use CPT Code 82552

CPT 82552 describes the measurement of creatine kinase isoenzymes in a patient 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 82552?

CPT 82552 can be used to measure the different forms of creatine kinase isoenzymes in a patient specimen. This test helps determine the levels of CK, an enzyme found in various tissues and cells such as the heart, brain, or muscles. It is also known as creatine phosphokinase or CPK.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 82552 is: ‘Creatine kinase (CK), (CPK); isoenzymes.’

3. Procedure

1. The lab analyst collects a patient specimen, typically blood serum.
2. The lab analyst uses a methodology such as electrophoresis, densitometry, photometry, or column ion exchange chromatography to measure the amount of creatine kinase isoenzymes in the specimen.
3. The lab analyst analyzes the different forms of creatine kinase isoenzymes present in the specimen.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 82552 is used when there is a need to measure the levels of creatine kinase isoenzymes in a patient specimen. This test is particularly useful in diagnosing conditions related to myocardial infarction and skeletal muscle injury. The different isoenzymes, CK1 (CK BB), CK2 (CKMB), and CK3 (CK MM), are found in specific anatomical sites and can indicate injury to the brain, heart, or skeletal muscles.

5. When to use CPT code 82552

CPT code 82552 should be used when there is a clinical need to measure the levels of creatine kinase isoenzymes in a patient specimen. It is commonly used in the diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction and skeletal muscle injury. This code should not be used for other purposes unrelated to the measurement of creatine kinase isoenzymes.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 82552, the documentation should include:

• Indication of the need for measuring creatine kinase isoenzymes
• Methodology used for the measurement
• Date and time of the test
• Results of the analysis

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 82552, ensure that the test is performed to measure the levels of creatine kinase isoenzymes. It should not be reported with other codes unless there is a specific clinical need to do so. It is important to follow the guidelines provided by the payer regarding repeat tests and the use of modifiers.

8. Historical information

CPT 82552 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A lab analyst measures the levels of creatine kinase isoenzymes in a patient specimen to aid in the diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction.
2. A physician orders a test to measure the creatine kinase isoenzymes in a patient with suspected skeletal muscle injury.
3. A cardiologist requests the measurement of creatine kinase isoenzymes in a patient presenting with chest pain to rule out myocardial infarction.
4. A sports medicine specialist uses CPT 82552 to assess the levels of creatine kinase isoenzymes in an athlete with muscle soreness and fatigue.
5. A neurologist orders a test to measure the creatine kinase isoenzymes in a patient with suspected brain injury.
6. A rheumatologist utilizes CPT 82552 to evaluate the levels of creatine kinase isoenzymes in a patient with muscle weakness and joint pain.
7. An emergency room physician requests the measurement of creatine kinase isoenzymes in a patient with suspected rhabdomyolysis.
8. A primary care physician orders a test to measure the creatine kinase isoenzymes in a patient with unexplained muscle cramps.
9. A pediatrician utilizes CPT 82552 to assess the levels of creatine kinase isoenzymes in a child with muscle stiffness and weakness.
10. A geriatrician orders a test to measure the creatine kinase isoenzymes in an elderly patient with mobility issues and muscle wasting.