CPT® Code 80359

Official Description

Methylenedioxyamphetamines (MDA, MDEA, MDMA)

Common Language Description

The CPT® Code 80359 refers to a laboratory test specifically designed to measure the presence of methylenedioxyamphetamines, which include 3, 4-methylenedioxyamphetamines (MDA), 3, 4-methylenedioxy-N-ethylamphetamine (MDEA, commonly known as Ecstasy), and 3, 4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, also referred to as Eve). These substances are classified as central nervous system stimulants and are known for their hallucinogenic, psychedelic, and empathogenic effects. It is important to note that these drugs do not have any legitimate medical applications and are primarily associated with recreational use and abuse. The testing can be conducted on various biological samples, including meconium stool, urine, serum, plasma, or saliva, allowing for a comprehensive assessment of drug exposure. The collection methods for these samples vary: blood samples are obtained through venipuncture, urine samples can be collected via random void or catheterization, saliva is gathered using an oral swab or sample cup, and meconium stool is collected from a diaper. The analytical techniques employed for testing include quantitative high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry for serum, plasma, and stool samples, while urine is screened using enzyme immunoassay followed by confirmation through mass spectrometry. Saliva testing involves initial screening with immunochromatography or reflectometry, with confirmation performed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. This comprehensive approach ensures accurate detection and quantification of these substances in the specified biological matrices.

1. Indications

The laboratory test represented by CPT® Code 80359 is indicated for the detection and measurement of methylenedioxyamphetamines (MDA, MDEA, MDMA) in various biological samples. The specific indications for performing this test include:

Substance Abuse Evaluation This test is utilized in the assessment of individuals suspected of using or abusing methylenedioxyamphetamines, which are often associated with recreational drug use.
Forensic Analysis The test may be employed in forensic investigations to determine the presence of these substances in individuals involved in legal cases or incidents related to drug use.
Monitoring Treatment In some cases, the test may be used to monitor individuals undergoing treatment for substance use disorders, specifically those related to methylenedioxyamphetamines.

2. Procedure

The procedure for conducting the laboratory test under CPT® Code 80359 involves several key steps, which are detailed as follows:

Sample Collection The first step in the procedure is the collection of the appropriate biological sample. Blood samples are obtained through venipuncture, where a needle is inserted into a vein to draw blood. Urine samples can be collected either through random voiding or catheterization, depending on the clinical scenario. Saliva is collected using an oral swab or a sample cup, while meconium stool is gathered from a diaper, particularly in infants.
Sample Preparation Once the samples are collected, they undergo preparation for analysis. This may involve centrifugation of blood samples to separate serum or plasma, as well as any necessary processing of urine, saliva, or stool samples to ensure they are suitable for testing.
Analytical Testing The prepared samples are then subjected to specific analytical techniques. For serum, plasma, and stool samples, quantitative high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry is employed to accurately measure the concentration of MDA, MDEA, and MDMA. Urine samples are initially screened using enzyme immunoassay, and any positive results are confirmed through mass spectrometry. Saliva samples are screened using immunochromatography or reflectometry, with confirmation performed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry to ensure the reliability of the results.

3. Post-Procedure

After the completion of the testing procedure, the laboratory will analyze the results and generate a report detailing the presence and concentration of methylenedioxyamphetamines in the tested samples. Clinicians will review these results to make informed decisions regarding patient care, treatment options, or further investigations. It is essential to consider that the interpretation of the test results should be conducted in conjunction with clinical findings and patient history. Additionally, any necessary follow-up actions, such as counseling or referral to substance abuse treatment programs, may be recommended based on the outcomes of the test.

Short Descr	METHYLENEDIOXYAMPHETAMINES
Medium Descr	DRUG SCREENING METHYLENEDIOXYAMPHETAMINES
Long Descr	Methylenedioxyamphetamines (MDA, MDEA, MDMA)
Status Code	Not Valid for Medicare Purposes
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
APC Status Indicator	Code Not Recognized by OPPS when submitted on Outpatient Hospital Part B Bill Type (12x/13x)
Type of Service (TOS)	5 - Diagnostic Laboratory
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS)	T2D - Other tests - other
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.
GZ	Item or service expected to be denied as not reasonable and necessary