CPT® Code 80357

A laboratory test identified by CPT® Code 80357 is utilized to measure the levels of ketamine and its metabolite, norketamine, in serum or plasma samples. Ketamine is classified as an N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) antagonist, which means it works by blocking certain receptors in the brain that are involved in pain perception and mood regulation. This medication can be administered through various routes, including injection, ingestion, or inhalation, making it versatile in clinical settings. Ketamine is recognized for its potent analgesic (pain-relieving), sedative (calming), and amnesic (memory-impairing) properties, which contribute to its use in anesthesia, pain management, and the treatment of bronchospasm. One of the significant advantages of ketamine is its ability to maintain stable cardiovascular function while preserving airway reflexes, which enhances its safety profile as an anesthetic option for a diverse patient population. However, due to its dissociative effects, ketamine has also gained popularity among individuals seeking recreational use, leading to concerns regarding potential abuse. The testing process involves obtaining a blood sample through a separately reportable venipuncture, followed by analysis of the serum or plasma using quantitative gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, a highly sensitive and specific method for detecting and quantifying substances in biological samples.