READER QUESTIONS:
Tensilon Testing Does Have Its Own Code
Published on Sat Mar 19, 2005
Question: Does Tensilon testing have a dedicated code(s) and, if so, what is it?
South Carolina Subscriber
Answer: Look to 95857 (Tensilon test for myasthenia gravis) and 95858 (... with electromyographic recording) for Tensilon testing.
During the test, the physician slowly administers Tensilon to evaluate muscle response and diagnose myasthenia gravis - a chronic, progressive disease characterized by weakness of the voluntary muscles.
The physician may ask the patient to do various exercises, such as counting until his voice diminishes or holding his arms above the shoulders until they drop. The patient and physician will pay particular attention to whether the Tensilon improves muscle strength.