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The CPT® Code 86005 refers to a specific laboratory test known as the allergen specific IgE qualitative multiallergen screen. This test is commonly recognized as a radioallergosorbent test (RAST) and is categorized as an in vitro test, meaning it is conducted using a blood sample rather than through skin testing (in vivo). Unlike many allergy tests that yield quantitative or semiquantitative results—providing IgE units that can be interpreted with a scoring system—this particular test focuses solely on the qualitative aspect. It determines the presence or absence of specific IgE antibodies associated with various allergic reactions. The allergens tested can include a wide range of substances such as foods, animal dander, dust mites, molds, grasses, trees, weeds, and insects. Recent advancements in allergy testing technology have enhanced the ability to detect allergen proteins, even those present in minimal quantities, thereby improving the identification of specific allergies. Typically, the test is performed as part of an allergy panel or profile, which may assess multiple allergens relevant to a particular geographic area or demographic group, such as adults or children. These panels can encompass a variety of common allergens, including those associated with upper respiratory allergies or specific food allergies in children. It is important to note that while the qualitative multiallergen screen (CPT® Code 86005) identifies whether specific IgE is present, it does not provide quantitative measurements or an allergy score, which distinguishes it from other testing codes such as CPT® Code 86003, which is used for quantitative or semiquantitative testing of crude allergen extracts.
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The allergen specific IgE qualitative multiallergen screen (CPT® Code 86005) is indicated for the evaluation of patients who exhibit symptoms suggestive of allergic reactions. This test is particularly useful in identifying specific IgE antibodies associated with various allergens, which may include:
The procedure for conducting the allergen specific IgE qualitative multiallergen screen involves several key steps:
Post-procedure care for the allergen specific IgE qualitative multiallergen screen is generally minimal, as the test is non-invasive and involves only a blood draw. Patients may be advised to maintain hydration and can typically resume normal activities immediately following the test. Results are usually interpreted by a healthcare provider, who will discuss the findings with the patient and may recommend further testing or treatment based on the results. It is important for patients to follow up with their healthcare provider to understand the implications of the test results and to develop an appropriate management plan for any identified allergies.
| Short Descr | ALLG SPEC IGE MULTIALLG SCR | Medium Descr | ALLERGEN SPEC IGE QUAL MULTIALLERGEN SCREEN | Long Descr | Allergen specific IgE; qualitative, multiallergen screen (eg, disk, sponge, card) | Status Code | Statutory Exclusion (from MPFS, may be paid under other methodologies) | Global Days | XXX - Global Concept Does Not Apply | PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) | 9 - Not Applicable | Multiple Procedures (51) | 9 - Concept does not apply. | Bilateral Surgery (50) | 9 - Concept does not apply. | Physician Supervisions | 09 - Concept does not apply. | Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) | 9 - Concept does not apply. | Co-Surgeons (62) | 9 - Concept does not apply. | Team Surgery (66) | 9 - Concept does not apply. | Diagnostic Imaging Family | 99 - Concept Does Not Apply | CLIA Waived (QW) | No | APC Status Indicator | Conditionally packaged laboratory tests | Type of Service (TOS) | 5 - Diagnostic Laboratory | Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) | T1H - Lab tests - other (non-Medicare fee schedule) | MUE | 2 | CCS Clinical Classification | 235 - Other Laboratory |
| 59 | Distinct procedural service: under certain circumstances, it may be necessary to indicate that a procedure or service was distinct or independent from other non-e/m services performed on the same day. modifier 59 is used to identify procedures/services, other than e/m services, that are not normally reported together, but are appropriate under the circumstances. documentation must support a different session, different procedure or surgery, different site or organ system, separate incision/excision, separate lesion, or separate injury (or area of injury in extensive injuries) not ordinarily encountered or performed on the same day by the same individual. however, when another already established modifier is appropriate it should be used rather than modifier 59. only if no more descriptive modifier is available, and the use of modifier 59 best explains the circumstances, should modifier 59 be used. note: modifier 59 should not be appended to an e/m service. to report a separate and distinct e/m service with a non-e/m service performed on the same date, see modifier 25. | 90 | Reference (outside) laboratory: when laboratory procedures are performed by a party other than the treating or reporting physician or other qualified health care professional, the procedure may be identified by adding modifier 90 to the usual procedure number. | GA | Waiver of liability statement issued as required by payer policy, individual case | GY | Item or service statutorily excluded, does not meet the definition of any medicare benefit or, for non-medicare insurers, is not a contract benefit | 91 | Repeat clinical diagnostic laboratory test: in the course of treatment of the patient, it may be necessary to repeat the same laboratory test on the same day to obtain subsequent (multiple) test results. under these circumstances, the laboratory test performed can be identified by its usual procedure number and the addition of modifier 91. note: this modifier may not be used when tests are rerun to confirm initial results; due to testing problems with specimens or equipment; or for any other reason when a normal, one-time, reportable result is all that is required. this modifier may not be used when other code(s) describe a series of test results (eg, glucose tolerance tests, evocative/suppression testing). this modifier may only be used for laboratory test(s) performed more than once on the same day on the same patient. | XS | Separate structure, a service that is distinct because it was performed on a separate organ/structure | XU | Unusual non-overlapping service, the use of a service that is distinct because it does not overlap usual components of the main service |
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| 2018-01-01 | Changed | Long medium and short descriptions changed. AMA guidelines changed. |
| 2008-01-01 | Changed | Code description changed. |
| 1994-01-01 | Added | First appearance in code book in 1994. |
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