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The CPT® Code 82978 refers to a laboratory test specifically designed to measure the levels of glutathione in the body. Glutathione is a crucial antioxidant that plays a significant role in protecting cells from oxidative stress and maintaining overall cellular health. It is synthesized by the body from three amino acids: cysteine, glutamine, and glycine. The synthesis of glutathione requires the enzyme glutamine synthase, which facilitates the conversion of these amino acids into glutathione. Variations in glutathione levels can occur due to genetic mutations, particularly in genes such as GSTM1 and GSTP1, which may impact the body's ability to produce this important antioxidant. Testing for glutathione is particularly relevant in patients suffering from chronic diseases, immune system dysfunctions, myopathies, or neurological disorders, as it may provide insights into genetically inherited causes of these conditions. The test is performed by obtaining a blood sample through a procedure known as venipuncture, which is separately reportable. The analysis of the blood sample is conducted using a quantitative kinetic method, allowing for precise measurement of glutathione levels in the whole blood sample.
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The glutathione measurement test (CPT® Code 82978) is indicated for various clinical scenarios where understanding antioxidant levels may provide valuable insights into a patient's health status. The following conditions and symptoms may warrant this laboratory test:
The procedure for measuring glutathione levels involves several key steps that ensure accurate and reliable results. The first step is the collection of a blood sample from the patient. This is performed through a process known as venipuncture, where a needle is inserted into a vein, typically in the arm, to draw blood. It is important that this step is conducted in a sterile environment to prevent contamination and ensure the integrity of the sample. Once the blood is collected, it is placed in a suitable container for laboratory analysis.
After the glutathione measurement test is completed, there are generally no specific post-procedure care requirements for the patient. However, it is important for the healthcare provider to communicate the results of the test to the patient and discuss any necessary follow-up actions or treatments based on the findings. Patients may experience minor discomfort or bruising at the venipuncture site, but these symptoms typically resolve quickly. If any unusual symptoms occur, patients should be advised to contact their healthcare provider for further evaluation.
| Short Descr | ASSAY OF GLUTATHIONE | Medium Descr | ASSAY OF GLUTATHIONE | Long Descr | Glutathione | 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 |
| 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. | GA | Waiver of liability statement issued as required by payer policy, individual case | GY | Item or service statutorily excluded, does not meet the definition of any medicare benefit or, for non-medicare insurers, is not a contract benefit | 76 | Repeat procedure or service by same physician or other qualified health care professional: it may be necessary to indicate that a procedure or service was repeated by the same physician or other qualified health care professional subsequent to the original procedure or service. this circumstance may be reported by adding modifier 76 to the repeated procedure or service. note: this modifier should not be appended to an e/m service. | GX | Notice of liability issued, voluntary under payer policy | GZ | Item or service expected to be denied as not reasonable and necessary |
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| 2013-01-01 | Changed | Medium Descriptor changed. |
| Pre-1990 | Added | Code added. |
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