82438 Assay other fluid chlorides
Also known as: other fluid chloride, CSF chloride, body cavity chloride
Ion-selective electrode or titration measurement of chloride in body fluids other than serum or urine (cerebrospinal fluid, ascites, etc.).
In Plain Language
spinal fluid salt test; body fluid electrolyte test; special fluid chloride test
Clinical Context
CSF chloride low in tuberculous meningitis; evaluates composition of body cavity fluids.
RVU Information
CPT 82438 does not have a physician work RVU assigned by CMS. Reimbursement for this code is determined by payer-specific fee schedules.
Billing & Documentation
Lab and pathology codes require an order from the treating provider with clinical indication. For molecular pathology and genetic testing, document the specific analytes tested and clinical rationale.
How This Code Compares
This code has a work RVU of 0.00, meaning it does not have a physician work component assigned by CMS. In the Pathology & Lab category, 94% of codes share this characteristic.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 82438?
CPT 82438 (Assay other fluid chlorides) is a Pathology & Lab code. Ion-selective electrode or titration measurement of chloride in body fluids other than serum or urine (cerebrospinal fluid, ascites, etc.).
Who uses CPT code 82438?
CPT 82438 is used by Pathology, Neurology, Internal Medicine. CSF chloride low in tuberculous meningitis; evaluates composition of body cavity fluids.
When is CPT 82438 used?
CSF chloride low in tuberculous meningitis; evaluates composition of body cavity fluids.
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CPT® is a registered trademark of the American Medical Association. Data sourced from CMS Physician Fee Schedule RVU26A. Descriptions, synonyms, and clinical context are original content by RVU Edge.