CPT® Code 96573

Photodynamic therapy by external application of light to destroy premalignant lesions of the skin and adjacent mucosa with application and illumination/activation of photosensitizing drug(s) provided by a physician or other qualified health care professional, per day

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a medical procedure that utilizes photosensitive or photoreactive chemicals in conjunction with light to effectively target and destroy premalignant lesions located on the skin and adjacent mucosa. This therapy involves the topical application of these photoreactive agents to all lesions within a designated anatomical area, which may include regions such as the face or scalp. The process begins with the preparation of the lesions, which may involve the removal of any overlying crust or scale to ensure optimal contact between the photoreactive chemicals and the skin. Following this preparation, the photosensitizing drugs are applied to the lesions, and the area is subsequently illuminated with light of a specific wavelength. This light activation is crucial as it triggers a chemical reaction that leads to the destruction of the targeted lesions. The CPT® Code 96573 specifically refers to the provision of this therapy by a physician or other qualified healthcare professional, and it is important to note that this code is reported once per day for the photodynamic therapy performed.