CPT® Code 83664

A fetal lung maturity assessment is a critical evaluation performed on amniotic fluid to determine the development of the fetus's lungs prior to delivery. This assessment can be conducted using various methods, including the foam stability test (CPT® Code 83662), fluorescence polarization (CPT® Code 83663), and lamellar body density (CPT® Code 83664). The primary purpose of these tests is to evaluate lung maturity and assess the likelihood of neonatal respiratory distress syndrome (RDS), also known as hyaline membrane disease, occurring after birth. The results of these assessments are vital in guiding clinical decisions regarding the management of premature labor; they help determine whether to attempt to suppress labor or to proceed with delivery based on the maturity of the fetal lungs. Additionally, these tests may be indicated in situations where there are complications affecting the health of the mother and/or fetus, helping to ascertain if the fetal lungs are sufficiently mature to allow for the induction of labor. The lamellar body density assessment specifically involves analyzing the concentration of lamellar bodies, which are responsible for storing surfactant, a substance essential for proper lung function. This assessment is performed on a separately reportable sample of amniotic fluid, with a count of lamellar bodies greater than 30,000 per liter indicating adequate lung maturity.