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Official Description

Felbamate

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The CPT® Code 80167 refers to a laboratory test specifically designed to monitor therapeutic levels of felbamate, which is an antiepileptic medication utilized in the treatment of various types of seizures. This test is crucial for therapeutic drug monitoring, as it aids healthcare providers in optimizing the dosage of felbamate to ensure its effectiveness while minimizing the risk of toxicity. Monitoring is particularly important because the therapeutic levels of felbamate can be influenced by the presence of other medications, such as barbiturates and phenytoin, which may alter its serum concentration when co-administered. The elimination half-life of felbamate ranges from 13 to 23 hours, indicating the time it takes for the concentration of the drug in the bloodstream to reduce by half. For effective treatment, serum concentration trough levels of felbamate should ideally be maintained between 30 to 60 mcg/mL. Levels exceeding 60 mcg/mL can lead to toxicity, which poses serious health risks, including life-threatening conditions such as aplastic anemia or liver failure. To perform this test, a blood specimen is collected just before the patient's next scheduled dose of felbamate. The collected sample is then centrifuged within two hours to separate the serum from the blood cells and is placed in a plastic vial for analysis. The concentration levels of felbamate are determined using quantitative liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry, a precise method that allows for accurate measurement of drug levels in the serum.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The laboratory test associated with CPT® Code 80167 is indicated for the following conditions:

  • Monitoring Therapeutic Levels This test is performed to monitor the therapeutic levels of felbamate in patients undergoing treatment for various types of seizures.
  • Optimizing Dosage It helps in optimizing the dosage of felbamate to ensure effective seizure control while minimizing the risk of toxicity.
  • Assessing Noncompliance The test can determine whether a poor therapeutic response is due to noncompliance with the prescribed dosing regimen or a true lack of effectiveness of the medication.
  • Evaluating Drug Interactions It is essential for evaluating potential interactions with other medications, such as barbiturates and phenytoin, which can alter the serum levels of felbamate.

2. Procedure

The procedure for conducting the laboratory test for felbamate levels involves several critical steps:

  • Specimen Collection A blood specimen is collected from the patient just prior to their next scheduled dose of felbamate. This timing is crucial to ensure accurate measurement of trough levels.
  • Centrifugation The collected blood sample must be centrifuged within two hours of collection. This process separates the serum from the blood cells, which is necessary for accurate analysis of the drug concentration.
  • Sample Preparation After centrifugation, the serum is carefully placed into a plastic vial. Proper handling and storage of the serum sample are essential to maintain its integrity for testing.
  • Quantitative Analysis The concentration levels of felbamate in the serum are determined using quantitative liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. This advanced analytical technique provides precise measurements of the drug levels, allowing for effective monitoring and management of the patient's treatment.

3. Post-Procedure

After the laboratory test is completed, the results will be analyzed to determine the serum concentration of felbamate. Healthcare providers will review these results to assess whether the patient's drug levels are within the optimal therapeutic range of 30-60 mcg/mL. If the levels are found to be above 60 mcg/mL, indicating potential toxicity, the provider may need to adjust the dosage or consider alternative treatment options. Continuous monitoring may be required to ensure patient safety and effective management of seizure control. Additionally, any signs of adverse effects, such as symptoms of aplastic anemia or liver dysfunction, should be closely monitored following the test results.

Short Descr DRUG ASSAY FELBAMATE
Medium Descr DRUG ASSAY FELBAMATE
Long Descr Felbamate
Status Code Statutory Exclusion (from MPFS, may be paid under other methodologies)
Global Days XXX - Global Concept Does Not Apply
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) 9 - Not Applicable
Multiple Procedures (51) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Bilateral Surgery (50) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Physician Supervisions 09 - Concept does not apply.
Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Co-Surgeons (62) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Team Surgery (66) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Diagnostic Imaging Family 99 - Concept Does Not Apply
CLIA Waived (QW) No
APC Status Indicator Conditionally packaged laboratory tests
Type of Service (TOS) 5 - Diagnostic Laboratory
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) none
MUE 1
90 Reference (outside) laboratory: when laboratory procedures are performed by a party other than the treating or reporting physician or other qualified health care professional, the procedure may be identified by adding modifier 90 to the usual procedure number.
Q4 Service for ordering/referring physician qualifies as a service exemption
Date
Action
Notes
2021-01-01 Added Code added.
Code
Description
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