How To Use CPT Code 83060

CPT 83060 describes the quantitative measurement of sulfhemoglobin, a form of hemoglobin that has combined with a sulfur compound, rendering it unable to carry oxygen. 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 83060?

CPT 83060 can be used to quantitatively measure the level of sulfhemoglobin in a whole blood sample. Sulfhemoglobin is not a normal component of blood and is typically present due to ingestion of or exposure to toxic drugs or chemicals. This code is used to identify and measure the sulfhemoglobin level, which is important in diagnosing cyanosis caused by poisoning or adverse reactions to medications.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 83060 is: ‘Hemoglobin; sulfhemoglobin, quantitative.’

3. Procedure

1. The lab analyst collects a whole blood sample from the patient.
2. The lab analyst performs the technical steps to quantitate the sulfhemoglobin level using co-oximetry, a method that utilizes a spectrophotometer to measure the different wavelengths of light absorbed by the sample after a chemical reaction.
3. The sulfhemoglobin level is identified and measured, providing information on the presence and quantity of sulfhemoglobin in the blood.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 83060 is typically ordered in rare cases where a patient presents with cyanosis due to poisoning or adverse reactions to medications. The test helps clinicians accurately diagnose and care for these specific conditions. It is important to note that sulfhemoglobin is not a normal component of blood and is usually a result of exposure to toxic substances.

5. When to use CPT code 83060

CPT code 83060 should be used when there is a clinical suspicion of sulfhemoglobinemia, which is characterized by cyanosis and a bluish coloration of the skin. It is important to rule out other potential causes of cyanosis before ordering this test. Clinicians should consider this code when there is a history of exposure to toxic drugs or chemicals that may lead to the formation of sulfhemoglobin.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 83060, the following documentation is required:

• Indication for the test, including the patient’s symptoms and suspected exposure to toxic drugs or chemicals
• Date and time of specimen collection
• Methodology used for quantitating sulfhemoglobin
• Results of the sulfhemoglobin measurement
• Signature of the lab analyst performing the test

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 83060, it is important to ensure that the test is medically necessary and supported by appropriate documentation. Some payers may separately reimburse for specimen collection using a code such as 36415 for venipuncture. It is crucial to review payer-specific guidelines and policies to ensure accurate and appropriate billing.

8. Historical information

CPT 83060 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A patient presents with cyanosis and a bluish skin coloration after ingesting a toxic substance. CPT code 83060 is used to quantitatively measure the sulfhemoglobin level in their blood sample to confirm sulfhemoglobinemia.
2. A patient experiences adverse reactions to a medication, resulting in cyanosis. CPT code 83060 is utilized to determine if sulfhemoglobin formation is the cause of their symptoms.
3. A clinician suspects sulfhemoglobinemia in a patient who has been exposed to a chemical known to cause sulfhemoglobin formation. CPT code 83060 is ordered to measure the sulfhemoglobin level and aid in diagnosis.
4. A patient presents with cyanosis, and the clinician suspects sulfhemoglobinemia due to occupational exposure to toxic substances. CPT code 83060 is used to confirm the presence of sulfhemoglobin in their blood.
5. A patient exhibits cyanosis after ingesting a medication. CPT code 83060 is utilized to determine if sulfhemoglobin formation is responsible for their symptoms.
6. A clinician suspects sulfhemoglobinemia in a patient who has been exposed to a toxic chemical. CPT code 83060 is ordered to measure the sulfhemoglobin level and assist in diagnosis.
7. A patient presents with cyanosis and a history of exposure to a substance known to cause sulfhemoglobin formation. CPT code 83060 is used to quantitatively measure the sulfhemoglobin level and confirm sulfhemoglobinemia.
8. A clinician suspects sulfhemoglobinemia in a patient who has ingested a toxic substance. CPT code 83060 is ordered to measure the sulfhemoglobin level and aid in diagnosis.
9. A patient exhibits cyanosis after taking a medication. CPT code 83060 is utilized to determine if sulfhemoglobin formation is the cause of their symptoms.
10. A clinician suspects sulfhemoglobinemia in a patient who has been exposed to a chemical known to cause sulfhemoglobin formation. CPT code 83060 is ordered to measure the sulfhemoglobin level and assist in diagnosis.