How To Use CPT Code 84080

CPT 84080 describes the evaluation of different forms of the enzyme alkaline phosphatase, known as isoenzymes, 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 84080?

CPT 84080 can be used to evaluate the levels of various forms of alkaline phosphatase, called isoenzymes, in a patient specimen. This code is used when a lab analyst performs steps to separate the different fractions of alkaline phosphatase in the specimen, such as serum. The analysis may involve pretreating the specimen with heat and chemicals, and separating the fractions using techniques like gel electrophoresis.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 84080 is: ‘Phosphatase, alkaline; isoenzymes.’

3. Procedure

1. The lab analyst performs steps to separate the different fractions of alkaline phosphatase in the patient specimen, such as serum.
2. This may involve pretreating the specimen with heat and chemicals like neuraminidase and L phenylalanine.
3. The fractions are then separated using techniques like gel electrophoresis.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 84080 is ordered following an abnormal alkaline phosphatase test to help distinguish between various disease states that could cause abnormal levels of one or more ALP fractions. For example, an elevated ALP bone fraction could indicate Paget’s bone disease, which leads to enlarged and misshapen bones. This test is not limited to a specific condition and can be used to evaluate different disease states.

5. When to use CPT code 84080

CPT code 84080 should be used when a separate lab test, such as CPT code 84075, demonstrates an abnormal alkaline phosphatase level in the patient specimen. It helps to distinguish between different disease states that could cause abnormal levels of ALP isoenzymes.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 84080, the documentation should include:

• Results of the separate lab test showing abnormal alkaline phosphatase level
• Details of the steps performed to separate the ALP isoenzymes
• Any additional information relevant to the interpretation of the test results

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 84080, ensure that the test is performed following an abnormal alkaline phosphatase test. It is important to distinguish between CPT codes 84075 for total alkaline phosphatase, 84078 for heat-stable alkaline phosphatase, and 84080 for alkaline phosphatase isoenzymes. Report CPT 84080 once for each specimen if multiple specimens are submitted from different sources or at different times.

8. Historical information

CPT 84080 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 clinician orders CPT 84080 following an abnormal alkaline phosphatase test to evaluate the levels of different isoenzymes in a patient with suspected liver disease.
2. After an abnormal alkaline phosphatase test, a lab analyst performs CPT 84080 to assess the levels of alkaline phosphatase isoenzymes in a patient with suspected bone disorders.
3. CPT 84080 is ordered to evaluate the levels of alkaline phosphatase isoenzymes in a patient with suspected placental dysfunction following an abnormal alkaline phosphatase test.
4. Following an abnormal alkaline phosphatase test, a clinician orders CPT 84080 to assess the levels of different isoenzymes in a patient with suspected intestinal disorders.
5. A lab analyst performs CPT 84080 to evaluate the levels of alkaline phosphatase isoenzymes in a patient with suspected kidney disease after an abnormal alkaline phosphatase test.
6. CPT 84080 is ordered to assess the levels of alkaline phosphatase isoenzymes in a patient with suspected bone disorders following an abnormal alkaline phosphatase test.
7. After an abnormal alkaline phosphatase test, a clinician orders CPT 84080 to evaluate the levels of different isoenzymes in a patient with suspected liver disease.
8. Following an abnormal alkaline phosphatase test, a lab analyst performs CPT 84080 to assess the levels of alkaline phosphatase isoenzymes in a patient with suspected placental dysfunction.
9. CPT 84080 is ordered to evaluate the levels of alkaline phosphatase isoenzymes in a patient with suspected intestinal disorders following an abnormal alkaline phosphatase test.
10. A lab analyst performs CPT 84080 to assess the levels of alkaline phosphatase isoenzymes in a patient with suspected kidney disease after an abnormal alkaline phosphatase test.