78130 Red cell survival study
Also known as: red cell survival, RBC survival study
Red blood cell survival study performed using nuclear medicine to measure erythrocyte lifespan and detect hemolysis.
In Plain Language
red blood cell survival test; hemolysis evaluation
Clinical Context
Measures red cell lifespan (normal 120 days) to diagnose hemolytic anemias, immune-mediated destruction, and splenic sequestration patterns.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 0.59 |
| Total RVU | 0.59 |
Est. Medicare Payment
National estimate based on 2026 CMS PFS Conversion Factor ($33.40). Actual payment varies by locality (GPCI adjustment).
Billing & Documentation
Radiology codes require a written order, clinical indication, and a formal interpretation report. The professional component (modifier -26) and technical component (modifier -TC) may be billed separately.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 0.59, this code ranks in the 38th percentile among Radiology codes — 1.4x below the median (0.81). The highest wRVU in this category is 11.57.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 78130?
CPT 78130 (Red cell survival study) is a Radiology code. Red blood cell survival study performed using nuclear medicine to measure erythrocyte lifespan and detect hemolysis.
Who uses CPT code 78130?
CPT 78130 is used by Nuclear Medicine, Hematology, Radiology. Measures red cell lifespan (normal 120 days) to diagnose hemolytic anemias, immune-mediated destruction, and splenic sequestration patterns.
When is CPT 78130 used?
Measures red cell lifespan (normal 120 days) to diagnose hemolytic anemias, immune-mediated destruction, and splenic sequestration patterns.
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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.