© Copyright 2025 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.
The CPT® Code 0111T refers to the measurement of long-chain (C20-22) omega-3 fatty acids, specifically eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), within the membranes of red blood cells (RBCs). These fatty acids are significant as they play a crucial role in cellular structure and function, influencing the fluidity, flexibility, and permeability of cell membranes. Additionally, they impact the activity of enzymes that are associated with these membranes. The accumulation of long-chain omega-3 fatty acids in RBC membranes serves as a biomarker for assessing cardiovascular disease risk, particularly the risk of sudden cardiac death. The presence of these fatty acids is known to modulate the excitability of cardiac muscle cells by regulating the flow of electrolytes through ion channels, which is vital for maintaining normal cardiac function. To obtain the necessary data, a blood sample is collected through a separate, reportable procedure. The analysis involves testing the whole blood for total fatty acids, including the long-chain omega-3 fatty acids, utilizing gas chromatography/mass spectrometry techniques. The results of this analysis are expressed as a percentage, which is subsequently calculated to evaluate the associated cardiac risk.
© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.
The procedure associated with CPT® Code 0111T is indicated for the assessment of cardiovascular disease risk, particularly in evaluating the risk of sudden cardiac death. The measurement of long-chain omega-3 fatty acids in red blood cell membranes can provide valuable insights into an individual's cardiovascular health.
The procedure for measuring long-chain omega-3 fatty acids in red blood cell membranes involves several key steps. First, a blood sample is obtained from the patient through a separate, reportable procedure. This sample is crucial as it provides the necessary biological material for analysis. Once the blood sample is collected, it undergoes testing to determine the total fatty acids present, including the specific long-chain omega-3 fatty acids, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). The analytical method employed for this testing is gas chromatography/mass spectrometry, a highly sensitive and accurate technique that allows for the precise quantification of fatty acids. After the analysis is completed, the results are expressed as a percentage of the total fatty acids, which is then calculated to assess the cardiac risk associated with the levels of long-chain omega-3 fatty acids present in the red blood cell membranes.
Post-procedure care following the collection of the blood sample is generally minimal, as the primary focus is on the analysis of the sample rather than any immediate intervention. Patients may be advised to follow up with their healthcare provider to discuss the results of the fatty acid analysis and any implications for their cardiovascular health. It is important for healthcare professionals to interpret the results in the context of the patient's overall health status and risk factors for cardiovascular disease.
| Short Descr | RBC MEMBRANES FATTY ACIDS | Medium Descr | LONG-CHAIN OMEGA-3 FATTY ACIDS RBC MEMBS | Long Descr | Long-chain (C20-22) omega-3 fatty acids in red blood cell (RBC) membranes | Status Code | Statutory Exclusion (from MPFS, may be paid under other methodologies) | Global Days | XXX - Global Concept Does Not Apply | PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) | 9 - Not Applicable | Multiple Procedures (51) | 9 - Concept does not apply. | Bilateral Surgery (50) | 9 - Concept does not apply. | Physician Supervisions | 09 - Concept does not apply. | Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) | 9 - Concept does not apply. | Co-Surgeons (62) | 9 - Concept does not apply. | Team Surgery (66) | 9 - Concept does not apply. | Diagnostic Imaging Family | 99 - Concept Does Not Apply | APC Status Indicator | Service Paid under Fee Schedule or Payment System other than OPPS | Type of Service (TOS) | 5 - Diagnostic Laboratory | Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) | T1H - Lab tests - other (non-Medicare fee schedule) | MUE | Not applicable/unspecified. | CCS Clinical Classification | 233 - Laboratory - Chemistry and Hematology |
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