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The Tensilon test is a method to help diagnose myasthenia gravis.
How the test is performedA drug called Tensilon (also called edrophonium) or a dummy medicine (inactive placebo) is given during this test. The health care provider gives the appropriate one through one of your veins (intravenously, through an IV). You may also be given a medication called atropine before receiving Tensilon so that you do not know you are receiving the drug.
You will be asked to perform some repetitive muscular movements such as crossing and uncrossing your legs or getting up from a sitting position in a chair. Particular attention will be paid to whether your muscle strength is improved by the Tensilon.
The test may be repeated and additional Tensilon may be given to help tell the difference between myasthenia gravis and other conditions.
How to prepare for the testNo special preparation is usually necessary. However, you should follow any dietary restrictions or other directions prescribed by your health care provider.
How the test will feelYou will feel a sharp prick as the IV needle is inserted. The drug may cause a feeling of a churning of the stomach or a slight feeling of increased heart rate, especially if Atropine is not given first.
Why the test is performedThe test helps diagnosis myasthenia gravis, may aid in telling the difference between myasthenic and other similar neurological conditions, and may be used to monitor oral anticholinesterase therapy.
What abnormal results meanIn myasthenia gravis, the muscles will improve immediately following the Tensilon. The maximum benefit only lasts a few minutes.
In myasthenic crisis (worsening of the disease that requires anticholinesterase therapy), there is a brief improvement in the muscle strength.
In cholinergic crisis (overdose of anticholinesterase), Tensilon will make the person even weaker.
Additional conditions under which the test may be performed include Lambert-Eaton syndrome.
What the risks areThe drug used during the test may cause side effects, including fainting or respiratory failure. Therefore the test must be done in a medically supervised setting.
ReferencesVincent A, Newsom-Davis J. Disorders of neuromuscular transmission. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 448.
What else can I help you with?
What is a Tensilon test?
Tensilon is the trade name for edrophonium chloride. The Tensilon test is an injection of edrophonium chloride used to diagnosis myasthenia gravis (MG).
What precautions need to be taken when using the Tensilon test?
The Tensilon test may cause heart rhythm abnormalities, especially in those patients with preexisting conditions.
How is the Tensilon test done?
The Tensilon test involves the intravenous injection of a small amount of Tensilon. The needle is left in place. If no adverse reaction is observed within 30 seconds, an additional volume is injected. Results are apparent within one minute.
What is the purpose of the Tensilon test?
By blocking the action of acetylcholinesterase, Tensilon prolongs the muscle stimulation, and temporarily improves strength. Increased strength following an injection of Tensilon strongly suggests a diagnosis of MG.
What care should a patient receive after a Tensilon test?
The effects of Tensilon subside quickly, and are completely gone after 30-60 minutes. No aftercare is needed.
What characteristics does a normal Tensilon test have?
A normal Tensilon test is characterized by an improvement in muscle weakness or ptosis within minutes of administering the drug edrophonium. This improvement is temporary and lasts for about 5-10 minutes. The test is positive in patients with myasthenia gravis.
What is the CPT code for myasthenia graves tensilon test?
The CPT code for the Tensilon test, which is used to diagnose myasthenia gravis, is 95970. This code specifically pertains to the administration of edrophonium chloride (Tensilon) to evaluate neuromuscular transmission. Always confirm with the latest coding guidelines or a healthcare professional, as codes may update or vary based on specific circumstances.
Cpt ocde for myasthenia gravis tensilon test?
I cannot answer question. But maybe typo correction will help. Good luck.
How should patients be prepared for a Tensilon test?
Before the test, the patient must stop taking all drugs that can inhibit acetylcholinesterase. The referring physician can advise on specific drugs the patient is taking.
What risks exist for the patient in undergoing a Tensilon test?
Atrial fibrillation and bradycardia are possible in sensitive individuals. The administering physician must have appropriate resuscitative equipment available.
Can you bill a tensilon test?
Yes, a Tensilon test, also known as the edrophonium test, can be billed, typically under specific codes for diagnostic tests related to myasthenia gravis. The billing may vary based on the healthcare provider's coding practices and the specifics of the insurance plan. It's essential to ensure proper documentation and coding according to the guidelines of the American Medical Association and the payer involved. Always consult with a billing specialist or coding manual for precise codes and requirements.
What characteristics does an abnormal Tensilon test have?
An obvious increase in strength in weakened muscles strongly suggests the diagnosis of myasthenia gravis. The effect comes on very rapidly, and fades within minutes.
