How To Use CPT Code 83698

CPT 83698 describes the measurement of lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2) 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 83698?

CPT 83698 can be used to measure the amount of lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2) in a patient specimen. This test is typically performed on blood samples using a methodology such as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The results of this test can help evaluate patients with atherosclerosis for an increase in the level of Lp-PLA2, which may further increase the risk of stroke or heart attack.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 83698 is: ‘Measurement of lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2) in a patient specimen.’

3. Procedure

1. The lab analyst collects a patient specimen, typically blood.
2. The lab analyst performs a test using a methodology such as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to measure the amount of Lp-PLA2 in the specimen.
3. The test may involve reacting the specimen with test antigens, incubating the mixture, adding an agent to detect the antigen-antibody complex, and interpreting the results.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 83698 is typically ordered by clinicians to evaluate patients with atherosclerosis for an increase in the level of Lp-PLA2. Atherosclerosis refers to the deposition of a thick layer of fat on the inner walls of the arteries, which may lead to blockage. The test is not limited to a specific condition but is commonly used in the evaluation of patients at risk of stroke or heart attack.

5. When to use CPT code 83698

CPT code 83698 should be used when measuring the amount of Lp-PLA2 in a patient specimen. It is appropriate to order this test when evaluating patients with atherosclerosis or assessing the risk of stroke or heart attack. This code should not be used for other lipoprotein measurements, such as LDL cholesterol.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 83698, the documentation should include:

• Patient’s clinical indication for the test, such as atherosclerosis or risk of stroke/heart attack
• Methodology used for the test, such as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA)
• Date and time of the test
• Interpretation of the test results
• Signature of the lab analyst performing the test

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 83698, ensure that the test is performed to measure the amount of Lp-PLA2 in a patient specimen. It is important to follow the specific guidelines provided by payers regarding the use of this code. It is also essential to use the appropriate codes for specimen collection, if applicable.

8. Historical information

CPT 83698 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2007. There have been historical changes to the code, including a code change on January 1, 2008, which updated the description to ‘Lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2, (Lp-PLA2).’ No further updates have been made to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A clinician orders CPT 83698 to measure the amount of Lp-PLA2 in a patient with atherosclerosis.
2. During a routine check-up, a patient with a history of stroke undergoes CPT 83698 to assess their risk of future cardiovascular events.
3. A cardiologist orders CPT 83698 for a patient with suspected coronary artery disease to evaluate their Lp-PLA2 levels.
4. As part of a research study, CPT 83698 is performed on blood samples from a group of patients to investigate the association between Lp-PLA2 levels and atherosclerosis progression.
5. A patient with a family history of heart disease undergoes CPT 83698 to assess their risk of developing atherosclerosis.
6. Following a heart attack, a patient’s Lp-PLA2 levels are measured using CPT 83698 to guide their treatment plan.
7. A primary care physician orders CPT 83698 for a patient with multiple risk factors for cardiovascular disease to assess their overall risk.
8. During a wellness exam, a clinician includes CPT 83698 to evaluate a patient’s Lp-PLA2 levels as part of their preventive care.
9. A patient with a history of stroke and high cholesterol undergoes CPT 83698 to monitor their Lp-PLA2 levels and assess their risk of recurrent events.
10. A cardiologist orders CPT 83698 for a patient with chest pain to evaluate their Lp-PLA2 levels and determine the underlying cause.