Pathology/Lab Coding Alert

Question: If a hepatic function panel (CPT 80076 ) is ordered due to the administration of medication for systemic lupus erythematosus that is potentially toxic to the liver, is it considered a screening test if the patient has no symptoms of liver disease? Which diagnosis code should I use?

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Answer: In the example given, the hepatic function panel is not considered a screening test because it is ordered to provide information that is medically  necessary in managing the patients disease. The correct diagnosis code is V58.69 (long-term [current] use of other medications, high-risk medications). The systemic lupus erythematosus (710.0) would be listed as the secondary diagnosis.

 
Answers to Reader Questions and You Be the Coder provided by R.M. Stainton, MD; and Laurie Castillo, MA, CPC, CPC-H, CCS-P.