Question

question 22

in a legal hearing to determine child support there is a dispute about the childs paternity. the court orders a paternity test, and a nasal smear is taken from the plaintiff and the child. the plaintiff is confirmed as the father of the child. choose the cpt®, icd-10-cm codes and modifier for the paternity testing of the plaintiff.

89190-32, z31.448
86900, z02.81
86910 x 2, z31.448
86910-32, z02.81

Explanation:

Identify the correct CPT code for paternity testing

CPT code 86910 represents "Blood typing; antigen system characterization, each antigen system and each person". However, paternity testing is specifically coded under CPT code 86910. Since the question asks for the paternity testing of the plaintiff (one person), the base code is 86910.

Determine the appropriate modifier

The paternity test was ordered by the court during a legal hearing. CPT Modifier 32 is used to indicate "Mandated Services", which applies when services are related to physical, psychiatric, or other examinations/testing mandated by a court, legislative committee, or administrative authority. Thus, the CPT code with modifier is 86910-32.

Identify the correct ICD-10-CM diagnosis code

ICD-10-CM code Z02.81 represents "Encounter for paternity testing". This is the correct diagnosis code for a paternity test encounter, whereas Z31.448 is for other procreative management testing. Therefore, the correct code combination is 86910-32, Z02.81.

Answer:

• 89190-32, Z31.448
• 86900, Z02.81
• 86910 x 2, Z31.448
• 86910-32, Z02.81 (Correct answer)