Cpt Code For Nuclear Medicine White Blood Cell Scan
When it comes to diagnosing and treating medical conditions, accuracy is key. This is where nuclear medicine comes in. Nuclear medicine is a specialized form of medical imaging that uses small amounts of radioactive material to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions. One of the most common nuclear medicine procedures is the white blood cell scan, which is used to detect infections in the body. In this article, we will take a closer look at the Cpt code for nuclear medicine white blood cell scan.
What is a white blood cell scan?
A white blood cell scan, also known as a leukocyte scan, is a type of nuclear medicine scan that is used to identify infections in the body. The procedure involves injecting a small amount of radioactive material into the patient's bloodstream. This material is taken up by white blood cells, which are responsible for fighting infections in the body. The patient is then scanned using a special camera that can detect the radioactive material. Areas of the body that have a high concentration of white blood cells will show up as bright spots on the scan, indicating the presence of an infection.
White blood cell scans are particularly useful for detecting infections in areas that are difficult to access using other imaging techniques, such as the brain or spine. They are also used to monitor the effectiveness of treatments for infections, such as antibiotics.
What is the Cpt code for a white blood cell scan?
The Cpt code for a white blood cell scan is 78835. This code is used to bill for the technical component of the procedure, which includes the use of the radioactive material and the imaging equipment. It does not include the interpretation of the scan, which is billed separately.
It is important to note that the Cpt code for a white blood cell scan may vary depending on the specific type of scan being performed. For example, if the scan is being used to detect infections in the bone, a different Cpt code may be used.
How is the Cpt code for a white blood cell scan billed?
The Cpt code for a white blood cell scan is typically billed to the patient's insurance company. The cost of the procedure may vary depending on a number of factors, including the location of the facility, the complexity of the scan, and the patient's insurance coverage. It is important to check with the insurance company and the facility performing the scan to determine the exact cost of the procedure.
What are the risks of a white blood cell scan?
Like all medical procedures, a white blood cell scan carries some risks. The most common risk is exposure to radiation from the radioactive material used in the procedure. However, the amount of radiation used in a white blood cell scan is very small and is considered safe for most patients. Patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding may be advised to postpone the procedure until a later time.
Other risks of a white blood cell scan may include bruising or bleeding at the injection site, allergic reactions to the radioactive material, or infection if the injection site is not properly cleaned. However, these risks are rare and can usually be managed with proper medical care.
Conclusion
A white blood cell scan is a valuable tool in the diagnosis and treatment of infections in the body. By using a small amount of radioactive material, this procedure can identify areas of the body that are affected by infection, even in hard-to-reach areas such as the brain or spine. The Cpt code for a white blood cell scan is 78835, and it is typically billed to the patient's insurance company. While the procedure carries some risks, these risks are generally low and can be managed with proper medical care. If you think you may need a white blood cell scan, talk to your doctor to learn more about the procedure and whether it is right for you.
