Cardiology Coding Alert

Question: What can you tell me about the new CPT^® 2019 code 83722?

Ohio Subscriber

Answer: Code 83722 (Lipoprotein, direct measurement; small dense LDL cholesterol) is a new code that will be added to the lab section, according Carol Hodge, CPC, CDEO, CCC, CEMC,  certified medical coder at St. Joseph’s Cardiology in Savannah, Georgia.

High low-density lipoproteins (LDL) cholesterol is known as bad cholesterol, Hodge continues. New studies are showing that it isn’t only the quantity of LDL in your blood, but also the quality that is harmful.

“Small dense LDL is a type of LDL that is smaller and heavier than typical LDL. It is small enough to penetrate the wall of the arteries, is easier oxidized and stays in the blood stream longer,” Hodge adds. “There are multiple risk factors for small dense LDL such as high carbohydrate diet — especially refined sugars, uncontrolled diabetes, and a diet high in transfat. It can also be hereditary.”