CPT® Code 78110

The CPT® Code 78110 refers to a laboratory test that measures plasma volume (PV) using a radiopharmaceutical volume-dilution technique, specifically through a separate procedure involving single sampling. This test is particularly significant in clinical settings for evaluating conditions such as hypovolemia, which is a decreased volume of blood plasma, and hypervolemia, which indicates an increased volume. It is also utilized in cases of acute blood loss and shock, where understanding the plasma volume can be critical for patient management. The procedure typically employs radiolabeled protein tracers, with the most common being I-125 radioiodinated serum albumin (I-125 RISA). Alternatively, Technetium-99m (99mTc) human serum albumin (HSA) may also be utilized. The process begins with the recording of the patient's height and weight, followed by the establishment of venous access. A baseline blood sample is collected before the injection of the radiolabeled pharmaceutical, which is then allowed to circulate within the body. After circulation, venipuncture is performed to draw a blood sample, which can either be a single sample or multiple samples taken at predetermined intervals. The microhematocrit is measured from each sample, and the remaining blood is centrifuged to separate the plasma from red blood cells. The data obtained from the patient sample is analyzed using specific formulas that compare the dilution factors of the radiolabeled tracer with standardized samples, taking into account the patient's height, weight, and hematocrit levels. This comprehensive approach ensures accurate assessment of plasma volume, which is essential for effective diagnosis and treatment planning.