How To Use CPT Code 83632

CPT 83632 describes the measurement of human placental lactogen (HPL), also known as human chorionic somatomammotropin, typically in a serum 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 83632?

CPT 83632 can be used to measure the levels of human placental lactogen (HPL), also known as human chorionic somatomammotropin, in a serum specimen. This test is primarily used by clinicians to assess placental function during pregnancy and as an index of fetal health. The measurement is typically performed using a radioimmunoassay method, which involves the use of a gamma radioactive tagged isotope to provide a precise measurement.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 83632 is: ‘Lactogen, human placental (HPL) human chorionic somatomammotropin.’

3. Procedure

1. The lab analyst collects a serum specimen from the patient.
2. The lab analyst performs the technical steps to quantitate the human placental lactogen in the serum sample.
3. The measurement is typically done using a radioimmunoassay method, which involves the use of a gamma radioactive tagged isotope and a gamma counter.
4. The lab analyst records the measurement of human placental lactogen levels in the serum specimen.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 83632 is typically used to assess placental function during pregnancy and as an index of fetal health. It may be ordered by clinicians to evaluate placental weight, as low levels of human placental lactogen may indicate growth retardation of the fetus. The test is performed on serum specimens collected from pregnant individuals.

5. When to use CPT code 83632

CPT code 83632 should be used when there is a need to measure the levels of human placental lactogen in a serum specimen to assess placental function during pregnancy and as an index of fetal health. It is important to ensure that the test is medically necessary and ordered by a qualified healthcare professional.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 83632, the following documentation is typically required:

• Indication of the medical necessity for the test
• Date of the test
• Results of the measurement of human placental lactogen levels
• Signature of the healthcare professional ordering the test

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 83632, it is important to ensure that the test is performed on a serum specimen and that the measurement of human placental lactogen levels is accurately documented. Some payers may also separately reimburse for the collection of the specimen using a code such as 36415. It is important to review the specific billing guidelines of the payer to ensure proper reimbursement.

8. Historical information

CPT code 83632 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 pregnant individual undergoes a serum test to measure the levels of human placental lactogen to assess placental function.
2. A clinician orders a measurement of human placental lactogen levels in a serum specimen to evaluate fetal health.
3. A pregnant patient with suspected growth retardation of the fetus undergoes a test to assess the levels of human placental lactogen in their serum.
4. A healthcare professional orders a measurement of human placental lactogen levels in a serum specimen to monitor placental function during pregnancy.
5. A pregnant individual undergoes a test to measure the levels of human placental lactogen as part of routine prenatal care.