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The CPT® Code 82820 refers to a specific blood test that measures hemoglobin-oxygen affinity, specifically the partial pressure of oxygen (pO2) required for 50% hemoglobin saturation with oxygen. This test evaluates how effectively hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells responsible for transporting oxygen, binds to oxygen molecules and subsequently releases them into body tissues. The affinity of hemoglobin for oxygen is crucial for ensuring that adequate oxygen is delivered to the body's peripheral tissues. Variations in hemoglobin function, often due to mutations in globin genes, can lead to altered oxygen affinity, which may result in clinical conditions. For instance, hemoglobin variants with a high affinity for oxygen can hinder the release of oxygen to tissues, potentially causing hypoxia and stimulating increased production of erythropoietin, which can lead to benign hereditary polycythemia. Conversely, variants with low oxygen affinity may be associated with conditions such as anemia and cyanosis. The test involves generating an oxygen dissociation curve (ODC) and determining the P50 value, which is the partial pressure of oxygen at which hemoglobin is 50% saturated with oxygen. To ensure accuracy, the blood sample for testing must be accompanied by a control sample from a non-smoking, biologically unrelated individual. The blood sample is obtained through a venipuncture, which is reported separately. The analysis is conducted using a Clark electrode to measure the oxygen partial pressure and spectrophotometry to assess the degree of hemoglobin saturation with oxygen, ultimately producing a comprehensive oxygen dissociation curve based on multiple measurements from an oxygen sensor.
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The hemoglobin-oxygen affinity test (CPT® Code 82820) is indicated for the evaluation of various conditions related to abnormal hemoglobin function. The following are specific indications for performing this test:
The procedure for conducting the hemoglobin-oxygen affinity test involves several critical steps to ensure accurate measurement of hemoglobin saturation and oxygen affinity. The following outlines the procedural steps:
After the hemoglobin-oxygen affinity test is completed, the patient may be monitored for any immediate reactions to the venipuncture. There are typically no specific post-procedure care requirements, but patients should be advised to maintain hydration and report any unusual symptoms. The results of the test will be analyzed and interpreted by a qualified healthcare professional, who will consider the findings in conjunction with the patient's clinical history and symptoms. Follow-up may be necessary to discuss the results and any further diagnostic or therapeutic steps that may be indicated based on the findings of the test.
| Short Descr | HEMOGLOBIN-OXYGEN AFFINITY | Medium Descr | HGB-O2 AFFINITY PO2 50% SATURATION OXYGEN | Long Descr | Hemoglobin-oxygen affinity (pO2 for 50% hemoglobin saturation with oxygen) | 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 | 233 - Laboratory - Chemistry and Hematology |
| GW | Service not related to the hospice patient's terminal condition |
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| 1993-01-01 | Added | First appearance in code book in 1993. |
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