Q&A: Coding CAR-T intrathecal administration

Q: When chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T) therapy is being performed, Current Procedural Terminology (CPT®) code 0540T is used to report the administration of the CAR-T product. When the product is being administered intrathecally via an Ommaya shunt, should CPT code 61070 be reported separately for puncture of shunt tubing or reservoir? For other types of infusions, the access is typically included in the administration charge. I am seeking guidance on whether any/all access for the administration of CAR-T products is included in CPT code 0540T.

A: CPT code 0540T would be appropriate because the route of administration is not included in the description of the code. The code is used to report the administration of CAR-T. If a cerebrospinal fluid aspiration is performed prior to the administration, you would also report CPT code 61020 for the aspiration and 0540T for auto CAR-T via Ommaya. Then, you would report CPT code 61210 for the placement of the catheter.

Editor’s note: This question was posted on the NAHRI Forums and answered by NAHRI Advisory Board member Jugna Shah, MPH, CHRI. Opinions expressed are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent those of NAHRI, HCPro, or any of its subsidiaries. Find more NAHRI resources on coding and documentation here.