CPT® Code 80158

The CPT® Code 80158 refers to a laboratory test specifically designed to measure the levels of cyclosporine in the blood. Cyclosporine is an immunosuppressant medication that plays a critical role in preventing the body from rejecting transplanted organs, such as the kidney, liver, heart, and lung. It is also utilized in the treatment of various autoimmune conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, aplastic anemia, and Crohn's disease. The drug is available in multiple forms, including oral capsules, injectable solutions, and an ophthalmic solution known as RESTASIS, which is used to enhance tear production in patients suffering from keratoconjunctivitis sicca, commonly referred to as severe dry eyes. Monitoring cyclosporine levels is essential for transplant patients, particularly during the initial stages of therapy, where levels may need to be assessed daily. As treatment progresses, the frequency of testing typically tapers to once or twice a week, and eventually to once every one to two months for routine monitoring. For optimal accuracy, blood specimens for cyclosporine testing are ideally collected 12 hours after the last dose. In the case of new transplant patients, peak levels are often drawn two hours post-dose, while trough levels are collected immediately before the next dose. The blood sample is obtained through a separately reportable venipuncture, and the analysis is conducted using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. It is important to note that Sandimmune, a specific formulation of cyclosporine, may be tested using either chromatographic or immunoassay techniques, which can yield different results. Therefore, it is crucial to document the testing technique used for accurate comparison with previous levels.