CPT® Code 82045

Official Description

Albumin; ischemia modified

Common Language Description

The CPT® Code 82045 refers to a laboratory test that measures levels of ischemia modified albumin (IMA) in the blood. This test is significant as it serves as a sensitivity marker for myocardial damage, particularly following events such as a myocardial infarction (heart attack) or other ischemic cardiac incidents. The presence of ischemic albumin indicates alterations in the albumin molecule that occur during ischemic conditions, which can help in the early detection of cardiac injury. To perform this test, a blood sample must be collected, typically through a procedure like venipuncture or during a percutaneous coronary intervention, which is a minimally invasive procedure used to diagnose and treat certain heart conditions. The serum obtained from the blood sample is then analyzed using the Albumin Cobalt Binding Test, a specific method designed to quantify the levels of ischemia modified albumin accurately. This test is crucial for healthcare providers in assessing cardiac health and determining the appropriate course of treatment for patients experiencing ischemic heart conditions.

1. Indications

The test associated with CPT® Code 82045 is indicated for the assessment of myocardial damage in patients who have experienced ischemic cardiac events. The following conditions may warrant the performance of this test:

Myocardial Infarction A heart attack where blood flow to a part of the heart is blocked, leading to damage of the heart muscle.
Ischemic Cardiac Events Any event that results in reduced blood flow to the heart, potentially causing damage to heart tissue.

2. Procedure

The procedure for obtaining the necessary sample for the Albumin test involves several key steps, which are outlined below:

Step 1: Sample Collection A blood sample is collected from the patient. This is typically done through venipuncture, where a needle is inserted into a vein to draw blood. Alternatively, the sample may be obtained during a percutaneous coronary intervention, which is a procedure used to treat narrowed coronary arteries.
Step 2: Serum Preparation Once the blood sample is collected, it is processed to separate the serum from the cellular components. This is essential as the serum contains the albumin that will be tested for ischemic modifications.
Step 3: Testing The serum is then subjected to the Albumin Cobalt Binding Test. This test measures the binding capacity of albumin in the presence of cobalt, which is altered in ischemic conditions. The results provide an indication of the levels of ischemia modified albumin in the sample.

3. Post-Procedure

After the blood sample has been collected and tested, there are generally no specific post-procedure care requirements for the patient. However, it is important for healthcare providers to monitor the patient for any potential complications related to the venipuncture, such as bruising or discomfort at the site of blood draw. The results of the test will be analyzed and interpreted by the healthcare provider, who will then discuss the findings with the patient and determine any necessary follow-up actions or treatments based on the levels of ischemia modified albumin detected.

Short Descr	ALBUMIN ISCHEMIA MODIFIED
Medium Descr	ALBUMIN ISCHEMIA MODIFIED
Long Descr	Albumin; ischemia modified
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)	T1H - Lab tests - other (non-Medicare fee schedule)
MUE	1
CCS Clinical Classification	206 - Microscopic examination (bacterial smear, culture, toxicology)