82638 Assay of dibucaine number
Also known as: dibucaine test, pseudocholinesterase assay
Laboratory assay measuring dibucaine number, a test of plasma cholinesterase (pseudocholinesterase) enzyme activity to assess succinylcholine metabolism.
In Plain Language
muscle relaxant metabolism test
Clinical Context
Performed to identify patients at risk for prolonged apnea after succinylcholine administration during anesthesia.
RVU Information
CPT 82638 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 82638?
CPT 82638 (Assay of dibucaine number) is a Pathology & Lab code. Laboratory assay measuring dibucaine number, a test of plasma cholinesterase (pseudocholinesterase) enzyme activity to assess succinylcholine metabolism.
Who uses CPT code 82638?
CPT 82638 is used by pathology, anesthesiology. Performed to identify patients at risk for prolonged apnea after succinylcholine administration during anesthesia.
When is CPT 82638 used?
Performed to identify patients at risk for prolonged apnea after succinylcholine administration during anesthesia.
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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.