AAPC Certified Professional Coder (CPC) — Question 38

A patient with three thyroid nodules is seen for an FNA biopsy. Using ultrasonic guidance, the provider inserts a 25-gauge needle into each nodule. Nodular tissue is aspirated and sent to pathology.
What CPT® coding reported?

Answer options

• A. 10005, 10006 x 2, 76942
• B. 10006 x 3
• C. 10005, 10006 x 2
• D. 10021, 10004 x 2, 76942

Correct answer: C

Explanation

The correct code is C, as it accurately represents the aspiration of two nodules (10006 x 2) and the initial procedure (10005). Option A is incorrect because it includes an additional code (76942) that is not necessary for this specific scenario. Option B incorrectly claims three aspirations were performed, and option D uses codes that do not correspond to the described procedure.