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CPT®
0233T

CPT® Code 0233T
Deleted

Code deleted, to report see 88749

Official Description

Skin advanced glycation endproducts (AGE) measurement by multi-wavelength fluorescent spectroscopy

© Copyright 2025 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

Advanced glycation endproducts (AGEs) are metabolic byproducts that result from the non-enzymatic glycation of proteins and amino acids. These compounds accumulate in the skin and various tissues of all individuals, but their accumulation is notably accelerated in patients with certain medical conditions. The presence of increased levels of AGEs is associated with biomarkers that indicate disease severity and can aid in risk prediction for various health issues. Conditions such as diabetes, renal failure, congestive heart disease, lupus erythematosus, and individuals who have undergone solid organ transplants are particularly relevant, as these patients may experience heightened levels of AGEs. Furthermore, individuals at risk for cardiovascular complications may also exhibit increased AGE accumulation. The measurement of AGEs is performed using non-invasive spectrographic autofluorescence readers, which detect the autofluorescent properties of AGEs when exposed to specific wavelengths of light. During the procedure, measurements are typically taken from the volar side of the lower arm or another site that is free from skin defects. The AGE reader utilizes an excitation light source that emits light within the range of 300 to 420 nm, and the emitted light from the skin is subsequently analyzed using a spectrometer. A skin/autofluorescence ratio is calculated based on these measurements, and the physician is responsible for interpreting the results and providing a comprehensive written report of the findings.

© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

Advanced glycation endproducts (AGE) measurement is indicated for the assessment of disease severity and risk prediction in patients with specific medical conditions. The following conditions are explicitly recognized for this procedure:

  • Diabetes - Patients with diabetes may exhibit increased levels of AGEs, which can indicate complications related to the disease.
  • Renal Failure - Individuals with renal failure often have elevated AGE levels, which can reflect the severity of their condition.
  • Congestive Heart Disease - AGEs are associated with cardiovascular complications, making their measurement relevant in patients with heart disease.
  • Lupus Erythematosus - Patients with this autoimmune condition may have altered AGE levels, which can be indicative of disease activity.
  • Solid Organ Transplant Recipients - Individuals who have undergone organ transplants may experience increased AGE accumulation, which can affect their long-term health.
  • Cardiovascular Risk - Patients at risk for cardiovascular complications may also benefit from AGE measurement as part of their risk assessment.

2. Procedure

The procedure for measuring advanced glycation endproducts (AGEs) involves several key steps that ensure accurate and reliable results. The following procedural steps are outlined:

  • Step 1: Patient Preparation - The patient is positioned comfortably, and the site for measurement, typically the volar side of the lower arm, is selected. It is essential that the chosen site is free from any skin defects to ensure the accuracy of the readings.
  • Step 2: Application of the AGE Reader - The non-invasive spectrographic autofluorescence reader is applied to the skin surface. The device is designed to illuminate the skin with an excitation light source that emits light within the wavelength range of 300 to 420 nm.
  • Step 3: Measurement of Autofluorescence - As the excitation light interacts with the skin, AGEs present in the tissue autofluoresce. The device captures the emitted light, which is then analyzed by a spectrometer to determine the levels of AGEs present.
  • Step 4: Calculation of Skin/Autofluorescence Ratio - The data collected from the spectrometer is used to calculate a skin/autofluorescence ratio, which serves as a quantitative measure of AGE accumulation in the skin.
  • Step 5: Interpretation of Results - The physician interprets the results obtained from the AGE measurement. This interpretation is crucial for understanding the implications of the AGE levels in relation to the patient's health status.
  • Step 6: Reporting Findings - Finally, the physician provides a written report detailing the findings of the AGE measurement, which can be used for further clinical decision-making and patient management.

3. Post-Procedure

Post-procedure care for patients undergoing advanced glycation endproducts (AGE) measurement is minimal due to the non-invasive nature of the test. Patients can typically resume their normal activities immediately following the procedure. There are no specific recovery protocols or restrictions required after the measurement. However, it is essential for the physician to discuss the results with the patient, including any implications for their health and potential follow-up actions based on the findings. Continuous monitoring and management of the underlying conditions associated with elevated AGEs may be recommended as part of the patient's overall care plan.
Short Descr SKIN GLYCATION SPECTROSCOPY
Medium Descr SKIN ADVANCED GLYCATION ENDPRODUCTS SPECTROSCOPY
Long Descr Skin advanced glycation endproducts (AGE) measurement by multi-wavelength fluorescent spectroscopy
Status Code Carriers Price the Code
Global Days XXX - Global Concept Does Not Apply
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) 0 - Physician Service Code
Multiple Procedures (51) 0 - No payment adjustment rules for multiple procedures apply.
Bilateral Surgery (50) 0 - 150% payment adjustment for bilateral procedures does NOT apply.
Physician Supervisions 09 - Concept does not apply.
Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) 0 - Payment restriction for assistants at surgery applies to this procedure...
Co-Surgeons (62) 0 - Co-surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Team Surgery (66) 0 - Team surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
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) 9 - Other Medical Items or Services
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) none
MUE Not applicable/unspecified.
CCS Clinical Classification 235 - Other Laboratory
Date
Action
Notes
2016-01-01 Deleted Code deleted, to report see 88749
2011-01-01 Added First Appearance in Code Book
2010-07-01 Added Added
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