CPT® Code 82140

The CPT® Code 82140 refers to a laboratory test that measures the levels of ammonia in the blood. Ammonia is a waste product that is generated during the metabolism of proteins in the body. Under normal physiological conditions, ammonia is converted into urea by the liver, which is then excreted from the body through the kidneys. However, when the liver is compromised due to conditions such as cirrhosis or hepatitis, the conversion process may be impaired, leading to elevated levels of ammonia in the bloodstream. This condition can manifest with various symptoms, including confusion, tremors, excessive sleepiness, and in severe cases, coma. The ammonia test is particularly relevant in the context of certain disease states, such as Reye's syndrome or liver failure, where monitoring ammonia levels can provide critical information regarding the patient's metabolic status. To perform this test, a blood sample is collected, typically through a venipuncture or an arterial access line, which is a procedure that may need to be reported separately. The collected specimen is then analyzed using colorimetric methods, which involve measuring the intensity of color produced in a chemical reaction to determine the concentration of ammonia in the sample.