CPT® Code 83873

The CPT® Code 83873 refers to a laboratory test that measures the levels of myelin basic protein (MBP) in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Myelin basic protein is a crucial component of the myelin sheath, which serves as a protective covering for nerve cells. The integrity of this protective layer is vital for the proper functioning of the nervous system. When myelin is damaged or breaks down, MBP levels in the CSF can become elevated, indicating potential neurological issues. This elevation is most commonly associated with multiple sclerosis (MS), a chronic disease that affects the central nervous system. However, elevated MBP levels can also result from other conditions, including central nervous system (CNS) trauma, infections, bleeding, various encephalopathies, and strokes. To perform this test, a sample of CSF is collected, typically through a procedure known as a lumbar puncture or spinal tap, which is reported separately. The analysis of the fluid is conducted using a quantitative enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), a sensitive technique that allows for precise measurement of MBP levels in the CSF.