Advanced Search

Pathology/Lab Coding Alert

READER QUESTIONS:

Specific AFP/AFP-L3 Ensures Pay

Published on Sun Aug 23, 2009

Question: Our lab determined total AFP and the L3 fraction isoform for a patient with an elevated AFP to rule out hepatocellular carcinoma. Should we report 82015 for the total AFP and 82491 for the L3 fraction by highpressure liquid chromatography? Utah Subscriber Answer: No, CPT provides a single, more specific code for the test you describe. You should report an AFP and AFP-L3 test with calculated ratio as 82107 (Alphafetoprotein [AFP]; AFP-L3 fraction isoform and total AFP [including ratio]). Before CPT added 82107, you did have to use two CPT codes: 82105 (Alpha-fetoprotein [AFP]; serum) described the total AFP test, and you had to use a nonspecific method code for the AFP-L3 fraction. The most appropriate code, as you mentioned, was 82491 (Chromatography, quantitative, column [e.g., gas liquid or HPLC]; single analyte not elsewhere specified, single stationary and mobile phase).
You’ve reached your limit of free articles. Already a subscriber? Log in.
Not a subscriber? Subscribe today to continue reading this article. Plus, you’ll get:
  • Simple explanations of current healthcare regulations and payer programs
  • Real-world reporting scenarios solved by our expert coders
  • Industry news, such as MAC and RAC activities, the OIG Work Plan, and CERT reports
  • Instant access to every article ever published in your eNewsletter
  • 6 annual AAPC-approved CEUs*
  • The latest updates for CPT®, ICD-10-CM, HCPCS Level II, NCCI edits, modifiers, compliance, technology, practice management, and more
*CEUs available with select eNewsletters.

Other Articles in this issue of

Pathology/Lab Coding Alert

View All