How To Use CPT Code 95923

CPT 95923 describes the testing of autonomic nervous system function, specifically the sudomotor function. 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 95923?

CPT 95923 can be used to describe the testing of the sudomotor function of the autonomic nervous system. This test assesses the functioning of the nerves that supply sweat glands in the body. The autonomic nervous system controls various involuntary functions, such as blood pressure, pulse rate, and sweating.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 95923 is: ‘Testing of autonomic nervous system function; sudomotor, including one or more of the following: quantitative sudomotor axon reflex test (QSART), silastic sweat imprint, thermoregulatory sweat test, and changes in sympathetic skin potential.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider performs various tests to assess the sudomotor function of the autonomic nervous system.
2. These tests may include the quantitative sudomotor axon reflex test (QSART), silastic sweat imprint, thermoregulatory sweat test, and changes in sympathetic skin potential.
3. During the QSART, the provider stimulates the sweat glands using electrical stimulation and measures the amount of sweat produced near a nerve.
4. The silastic sweat imprint test involves taking an imprint of drops of sweat in a rubbery material called silastic to measure the size and distribution of perspiration.
5. In the thermoregulatory sweat test, the patient enters a heated compartment, and a powder is applied to the body. The powder changes color in areas where sweat glands are functioning normally, indicating normal sweating.
6. The changes in sympathetic skin potential test measures the electrical potential in the skin in response to physiological and electrical stimuli, indicating the integrity of nerves supplying the sweat glands.
7. The provider may perform one or more of these tests to assess the sudomotor function of the autonomic nervous system.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 95923 is used for patients who require testing of the sudomotor function of the autonomic nervous system. This test is typically performed to evaluate conditions related to the autonomic nervous system, such as autonomic neuropathy or other disorders affecting sweat gland function. The provider must perform one or more of the specified tests, including QSART, silastic sweat imprint, thermoregulatory sweat test, or changes in sympathetic skin potential.

5. When to use CPT code 95923

CPT code 95923 should be used when the provider performs testing of the sudomotor function of the autonomic nervous system. This code is appropriate when one or more of the specified tests, such as QSART, silastic sweat imprint, thermoregulatory sweat test, or changes in sympathetic skin potential, are performed to assess the sudomotor function.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 95923, the provider must document the following information:

• Reason for performing the test and the patient’s symptoms or condition related to the autonomic nervous system
• Specific tests performed, such as QSART, silastic sweat imprint, thermoregulatory sweat test, or changes in sympathetic skin potential
• Date and time of the test
• Results of the test, including any abnormalities or findings
• Signature of the provider performing the test

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 95923, ensure that the provider performs one or more of the specified tests to assess the sudomotor function of the autonomic nervous system. Use the appropriate CPT code based on the specific tests performed. Append modifier 26 to indicate the professional component if only reporting the professional component. Append modifier TC to indicate the technical component if only reporting the technical component. Do not append modifiers if reporting a global service where one provider renders both the professional and technical components.

8. Historical information

CPT 95923 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1997. The code was later revised on January 1, 2010 to include the specific tests that can be performed to assess the sudomotor function of the autonomic nervous system.

9. Examples

1. A patient with symptoms of autonomic neuropathy undergoes testing of sudomotor function using the quantitative sudomotor axon reflex test (QSART).
2. A provider performs a thermoregulatory sweat test on a patient with suspected autonomic dysfunction to assess the distribution of perspiration.
3. A patient with autonomic neuropathy undergoes testing of sudomotor function using the silastic sweat imprint method.
4. A provider performs changes in sympathetic skin potential testing on a patient with autonomic dysfunction to evaluate the integrity of nerves supplying the sweat glands.