2025 CPT code 82190
Effective Date: N/A Pathology and Laboratory Procedures - Chemistry Procedures Feed
Atomic absorption spectroscopy, each analyte.
Modifiers may be applicable to further specify the circumstances of the test. Modifier 91 is used to indicate a repeat laboratory test. Modifier 90 indicates that the testing was performed by a reference (outside) laboratory.
Medical necessity must be established by documenting the clinical rationale for ordering the atomic absorption spectroscopy. This should correlate with signs, symptoms, or other findings suggestive of conditions for which the test results would guide treatment or management. If used because no specific analyte code exists, the provider should document why existing codes are inappropriate.
The lab analyst is responsible for performing the atomic absorption spectroscopy procedure, ensuring proper sample handling, analysis, and reporting of the results.
In simple words: This test measures the amount of certain elements in a sample using a special technique called atomic absorption spectroscopy. It works by measuring how much light is absorbed by the elements in the sample. This test is used when there isn’t a more specific test available.
The laboratory analyst performs measurement of samples based on atomic absorption spectroscopic analysis. This technique measures elements by utilizing the absorption of spectral radiation by free atoms in a gaseous state. The analyst quantitatively measures the requested test substance using this method. This code is used for lab procedures not assigned a specific analyte code or when no other listed code is available and the lab analyst performs the test for the analyte by this methodology.
Example 1: A patient presents with symptoms of heavy metal poisoning. An atomic absorption spectroscopy test (82190) is ordered to measure the levels of specific heavy metals, such as lead or mercury, in the patient's blood., A physician suspects a patient has a nutritional deficiency. An atomic absorption spectroscopy test (82190) is ordered to determine the level of trace elements, like zinc or copper, in a blood or tissue sample., A research study requires analysis of the mineral content in a particular plant species. Atomic absorption spectroscopy (82190) is employed to measure the amount of various elements in the plant samples.
Documentation should include the specific analyte(s) measured, the source of the specimen, the date and time of collection, and the reason for the test. If no other specific analyte code exists, this should be clearly documented.
- Revenue Code: T1H
- Specialties:Clinical Chemistry, Toxicology, Nutritional Medicine, Occupational Medicine
- Place of Service:Independent Laboratory, Hospital Laboratory, Physician Office Laboratory