36522 Photopheresis
Also known as: extracorporeal photochemotherapy, ECPT, photopheresis
Photopheresis, therapeutic (include one or more photochemotherapy cabins and related equipment).
In Plain Language
treating blood with light to fight cancer and autoimmune disease; light-activated blood treatment
Clinical Context
Used in cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (mycosis fungoides), GVHD, and certain autoimmune conditions. Combines apheresis with UV light exposure.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.71 |
| Total RVU | 1.71 |
Est. Medicare Payment
National estimate based on 2026 CMS PFS Conversion Factor ($33.40). Actual payment varies by locality (GPCI adjustment).
Billing & Documentation
As a surgical CPT code, proper documentation must include the operative report detailing the procedure performed, patient positioning, approach, findings, and any complications. This code has a 0-day global period, meaning pre- and post-operative E&M visits are billable separately on the same day. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 1.71, this code ranks in the 11th percentile among Surgery codes — 4.7x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 36522?
CPT 36522 (Photopheresis) is a Surgery code. Photopheresis, therapeutic (include one or more photochemotherapy cabins and related equipment).
What is the wRVU value for CPT 36522?
The work RVU for CPT 36522 is 1.71. This code is primarily used by Hematology/Oncology, Transfusion Medicine, Dermatology.
When is CPT 36522 used?
Used in cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (mycosis fungoides), GVHD, and certain autoimmune conditions. Combines apheresis with UV light exposure.
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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.