2025 CPT code 82482
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Laboratory - Chemistry Procedures Pathology and Laboratory Procedures > Chemistry Procedures Feed
Measures cholinesterase levels in red blood cells (RBCs).
Modifiers may be applicable depending on the circumstances.Consult the CPT manual for specific modifier usage guidance. Examples could include modifiers for place of service or technical component.
Medical necessity for this test is established when there is a clinical suspicion of organophosphate or carbamate pesticide exposure, a need to screen for inherited cholinesterase deficiencies before administering certain medications (e.g., succinylcholine), or for monitoring patients with known cholinesterase issues.Specific payer policies may require further documentation for justification.
A clinical laboratory scientist or technician is responsible for performing this test, including specimen collection (if applicable), analysis, and reporting of results. The ordering physician interprets the results in the context of the patient's clinical presentation.
In simple words: This blood test measures the amount of a substance called cholinesterase in your red blood cells. Cholinesterase is important for your nervous system to work properly.The test helps to check if you have been exposed to certain harmful chemicals or have a condition affecting this enzyme.
This CPT code 82482 represents the quantitative measurement of cholinesterase activity specifically within red blood cells (RBCs).The test assesses the enzyme's activity, which is crucial for proper nervous system function.The procedure typically involves obtaining a blood sample, separating the RBCs, and then using a method like colorimetry to determine the cholinesterase level. Results are reported quantitatively.
Example 1: A farmworker presents with symptoms suggestive of organophosphate pesticide poisoning (e.g., nausea, dizziness, muscle weakness).The physician orders this test to assess the level of RBC cholinesterase inhibition., A patient is scheduled for surgery requiring succinylcholine as a muscle relaxant.Prior to surgery, a cholinesterase test is ordered to screen for a potential inherited deficiency that might lead to prolonged paralysis., A patient with a history of exposure to cholinesterase inhibitors undergoes regular monitoring of their RBC cholinesterase levels to track the effects of the exposure and assess treatment efficacy.
* Physician's order specifying the test (82482).* Patient demographics and relevant clinical history.* Information on potential exposure to cholinesterase inhibitors.* Date and time of specimen collection.* Properly labeled specimen (including identification of the source of blood - red blood cells).* Complete and accurate laboratory report including the quantitative results.
** This code is for cholinesterase in RBCs; separate codes are used for serum or plasma cholinesterase.Ensure proper specimen handling and processing, especially given the short timeframe for RBC separation.
- Revenue Code: T1H (LAB TESTS - OTHER)
- RVU: This information is not provided in the source data.Consult the current year's CPT codebook or a reliable medical billing resource for RVU data.
- Global Days: Not applicable; this is a laboratory test, not a surgical procedure.
- Payment Status: Active
- Modifier TC rule: The technical component (TC) modifier is not applicable since the entire service (test) is performed by the laboratory.
- Fee Schedule: Fee schedule data varies by payer and location.Check local fee schedules for historical data.
- Specialties:Clinical Chemistry, Toxicology, Anesthesiology, Occupational Medicine
- Place of Service:Office, Hospital, Laboratory, Urgent Care Facility