How To Use CPT Code 82610

CPT 82610 describes the measurement of cystatin C, a protein found in the blood, to assess renal function. 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 82610?

CPT 82610 can be used to measure the amount of cystatin C, a protein found in the blood, to assess renal function. This code is used when a lab analyst performs the technical steps to obtain a cystatin C level from a patient’s specimen, typically serum. Cystatin C is a good indicator of glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and can be used as an alternative to creatinine for assessing kidney function.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 82610 is: ‘Assay of cystatin C.’

3. Procedure

1. The lab analyst mixes the patient’s serum or plasma with reagents from the assay to obtain a cystatin C level.
2. An agglutination type test is typically performed, where clumping occurs in the presence of cystatin C, making the sample cloudy.
3. The amount of cloudiness is proportional to the amount of cystatin C in the sample, allowing for quantification.
4. The cystatin C level obtained provides information about renal function and glomerular filtration rate.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 82610 is typically ordered by clinicians to assess renal function in patients. It may be used as a screen for kidney disease, as well as for cardiovascular disease and certain brain disorders. Cystatin C is not affected by factors such as inflammation, body mass, or diet, making it a reliable marker for renal function. Clinicians may choose to order cystatin C instead of creatinine when other conditions affect the accuracy of creatinine levels.

5. When to use CPT code 82610

CPT code 82610 should be used when a lab analyst performs the assay to measure cystatin C levels in a patient’s serum or plasma. It is appropriate to use this code when assessing renal function or when ordered as a screen for kidney disease, cardiovascular disease, or certain brain disorders.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 82610, the documentation should include:

• Reason for ordering the test, such as assessing renal function or screening for kidney disease
• Type of specimen collected (serum or plasma)
• Date and time of the test
• Results of the cystatin C level
• Signature of the lab analyst who performed the test

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 82610, ensure that the test is performed by a lab analyst and that the documentation supports the medical necessity of the test. CPT code 82610 should not be reported with other codes unless there are specific circumstances that warrant additional testing. It is important to check with payers for coverage rules regarding cystatin C testing and any associated specimen collection codes.

8. Historical information

CPT 82610 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2008. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A clinician orders CPT 82610 to assess renal function in a patient with suspected kidney disease.
2. CPT 82610 is performed to screen for kidney disease in a patient with cardiovascular risk factors.
3. A neurologist orders CPT 82610 to assess cystatin C levels in a patient with suspected brain disorder.
4. CPT 82610 is used to monitor renal function in a patient undergoing treatment for a chronic illness.
5. A primary care physician orders CPT 82610 to assess renal function in an elderly patient with multiple comorbidities.
6. CPT 82610 is performed to evaluate renal function in a patient with a family history of kidney disease.
7. A nephrologist orders CPT 82610 to assess renal function in a patient with unexplained symptoms.
8. CPT 82610 is used to monitor cystatin C levels in a patient receiving medication that may affect renal function.
9. A cardiologist orders CPT 82610 to assess renal function in a patient with known cardiovascular disease.
10. CPT 82610 is performed to screen for kidney disease in a patient with a history of hypertension.