CPT® Code 84182

Protein; Western Blot, with interpretation and report, blood or other body fluid, immunological probe for band identification, each

The CPT® Code 84182 refers to the Western Blot procedure, specifically designed for the detection of proteins in blood or other body fluids. This analytical technique, also known as protein immunoblotting, is crucial for identifying specific proteins that may be present in various biological samples. The process begins with the separation of proteins through gel electrophoresis, a method that utilizes an electric field to move proteins based on their size and charge. Once separated, these proteins are transferred onto a membrane, typically made of nitrocellulose or polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF). This membrane serves as a solid support for the proteins, allowing for further analysis. To identify the proteins of interest, specific antibodies that target these proteins are applied to the membrane. The use of an immunological probe is a key feature of this procedure, as it enables the precise identification of protein bands corresponding to the target proteins. Each band identified represents a specific protein, and the interpretation of these results is included in the service provided under this code. The code 84182 is reported for each immunological probe used in the analysis, ensuring that the complexity and detail of the testing are accurately captured in the coding process. This comprehensive approach not only aids in the diagnosis of various conditions but also supports the overall understanding of protein expression in clinical settings.