How To Use CPT Code 92542

CPT 92542 describes a positional nystagmus test that is used to assess the rapid movements of the eyeball when the patient changes the position of their head. This article will cover the description, official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 92542?

CPT 92542 is a code used to describe a positional nystagmus test. This test measures and records the rapid movements of the eyeball when the patient changes the position of their head. It is typically performed using electronystagmography or infrared videonystagmography electrodes. The purpose of this test is to assess if a disease of the inner ear is causing dizziness in the patient.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 92542 is: ‘Positional nystagmus test, minimum of 4 positions, with recording.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider places electronystagmography electrodes around the patient’s eyes or infrared videonystagmography goggles over the eyes.
2. The patient is instructed to move their head in different positions, such as lying supine with the head extended back, moving the head in the right or left direction, and sitting.
3. The provider observes and records the movements of the patient’s eyes during each position change.
4. A minimum of four positions must be tested and recorded.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 92542 should not be reported in conjunction with CPT codes 92270, 92540, or the set of 92541, 92544, and 92545. It is important to note that this test specifically assesses positional nystagmus and is not intended to evaluate other aspects of vestibular function.

5. When to use CPT code 92542

CPT code 92542 should be used when a provider performs a positional nystagmus test on a patient, recording the rapid eye movements that occur when the patient changes the position of their head. This code is appropriate when a minimum of four positions are tested and recorded.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 92542, the provider must document the following information:

• The specific positions in which the patient’s head was moved
• The number of positions tested and recorded (minimum of four)
• The results of the test, including any abnormal findings
• The date and duration of the test
• The type of electrodes or goggles used for the test
• The provider’s signature

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 92542, it is important to ensure that the test is performed as a standalone service and not as part of a basic evaluation (CPT 92540). This code should not be reported with CPT codes 92270, 92540, or the set of 92541, 92544, and 92545. If reporting only the professional component, append modifier 26 to the code. If reporting only the technical component, append modifier TC to the code. However, if the hospital provided the technical component, do not append modifier TC. If reporting a global service in which one provider renders both the professional and technical components, do not append any modifiers.

8. Historical information

CPT 92542 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 patient undergoes a positional nystagmus test to assess their dizziness symptoms. The provider records the rapid eye movements that occur when the patient changes the position of their head in at least four different positions.
2. A provider performs a positional nystagmus test on a patient who has been experiencing vertigo. The test involves moving the patient’s head in various positions and recording the eye movements that occur.
3. A patient presents with complaints of dizziness and imbalance. The provider performs a positional nystagmus test to evaluate the function of the patient’s inner ear and records the eye movements during different head positions.
4. A provider conducts a positional nystagmus test on a patient who has a history of Meniere’s disease. The test helps assess the patient’s vestibular function and records any abnormal eye movements that occur during position changes.
5. A patient is referred for a positional nystagmus test to determine the cause of their recurrent episodes of vertigo. The provider performs the test, recording the eye movements that occur when the patient changes the position of their head.
6. A provider performs a positional nystagmus test on a patient who has been experiencing dizziness and balance problems. The test involves moving the patient’s head in different positions and observing and recording the eye movements that occur.
7. A patient undergoes a positional nystagmus test to assess their vestibular function. The provider records the eye movements that occur when the patient changes the position of their head in at least four different positions.
8. A provider performs a positional nystagmus test on a patient who has been experiencing vertigo and unsteadiness. The test involves moving the patient’s head in various positions and recording the eye movements that occur.
9. A patient presents with complaints of dizziness and imbalance. The provider performs a positional nystagmus test to evaluate the function of the patient’s inner ear and records the eye movements during different head positions.