How To Use CPT Code 82747

CPT 82747 describes the measurement of folic acid levels in red blood cells to detect deficiencies. 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 82747?

CPT 82747 can be used to measure the levels of folic acid in red blood cells. This test is performed to detect deficiencies of folic acid, which is essential for normal red blood cell production. Folic acid deficiency can be caused by various conditions such as malabsorption, Crohn’s disease, celiac sprue, and surgical bypass procedures.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 82747 is the measurement of folic acid levels in red blood cells (RBC). It is used to detect deficiencies of folic acid, which is necessary for normal red blood cell production. The test is typically performed using a radioimmunoassay technique, which involves the use of a gamma-radioactive tagged isotope for precise measurement.

3. Procedure

1. The lab analyst collects a sample of red blood cells from the patient.
2. The sample is then subjected to a radioimmunoassay technique, where a gamma-radioactive tagged isotope is used to measure the folic acid levels in the red blood cells.
3. The measurement is performed using a gamma counter, which provides a precise quantitation of the folic acid levels.
4. The results are recorded and analyzed to determine if there is a deficiency of folic acid.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 82747 is typically ordered by clinicians to detect deficiencies of folic acid in patients. Conditions such as malabsorption, surgical treatments for obesity, pregnancy, and other factors can contribute to folic acid deficiencies. This test is particularly useful in diagnosing megaloblastic anemia, which is characterized by unusually large red blood cells due to folic acid deficiency.

5. When to use CPT code 82747

CPT code 82747 should be used when there is a clinical suspicion of folic acid deficiency and the measurement of folic acid levels in red blood cells is necessary for diagnosis. It is important to note that this code should not be used for serum folic acid measurement, as that requires a different code (82746).

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 82747, clinicians must document the following information:

• Reason for ordering the test and clinical suspicion of folic acid deficiency
• Date of the test
• Results of the folic acid measurement in red blood cells
• Any additional relevant clinical information

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 82747, it is important to ensure that the test is performed to measure folic acid levels in red blood cells. This code should not be reported with other codes for serum folic acid measurement. Additionally, some payers may separately reimburse for the collection of the specimen using a venipuncture code (36415).

8. Historical information

CPT 82747 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 patient with malabsorption issues undergoes a folic acid measurement in red blood cells to detect a deficiency.
2. A pregnant woman is tested for folic acid levels in red blood cells to ensure adequate levels for fetal development.
3. A patient who has undergone surgical bypass procedures undergoes a folic acid measurement in red blood cells to monitor for deficiencies.
4. A clinician suspects a folic acid deficiency in a patient with megaloblastic anemia and orders a measurement of folic acid levels in red blood cells.
5. A patient with Crohn’s disease undergoes a folic acid measurement in red blood cells to assess for deficiencies.