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Official Description

Antibody identification; platelet antibodies

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The CPT® Code 86022 refers to the procedure of antibody identification specifically for platelet antibodies. This test is crucial in the field of immunology and transfusion medicine, as it helps in identifying specific antibodies that target platelets, which are essential components of blood involved in clotting. Platelet antibodies can be either alloantibodies, which are formed in response to foreign platelet antigens, or autoantibodies, which are produced against the body's own platelets. The identification of these antibodies is vital for diagnosing various medical conditions, including autoimmune disorders, which can lead to the destruction of platelets, resulting in thrombocytopenia. Additionally, this test plays a significant role in managing complications related to pregnancy, such as miscarriage, and in monitoring patients who have undergone tissue or organ transplants, where the immune system may react against the transplanted material. The procedure typically involves obtaining a blood sample, which is then analyzed using advanced techniques such as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and flow cytometry. These methods allow for the precise detection of antibodies against platelet glycoproteins and Class I human leukocyte antigens (HLA), providing essential information for patient management and treatment decisions.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The antibody identification for platelet antibodies, coded as CPT® 86022, is indicated for several clinical scenarios where the presence of platelet-specific antibodies may impact patient management. The following conditions and situations warrant the performance of this test:

  • Autoimmune Disorders The test is utilized to identify antibodies that may be involved in autoimmune conditions, where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own platelets.
  • Miscarriage In cases of recurrent miscarriage, the identification of platelet antibodies can help determine if immune factors are contributing to pregnancy loss.
  • Tissue and Organ Transplant Rejection The test aids in assessing the risk of rejection in transplant patients by identifying antibodies that may target transplanted platelets.
  • Neonatal Alloimmune Thrombocytopenia (NATP) This condition occurs when maternal antibodies attack fetal platelets, and the test helps in diagnosing and managing this serious condition.
  • Post-Transfusion Purpura (PTP) The identification of platelet antibodies is crucial in patients who develop thrombocytopenia following a blood transfusion, helping to guide further treatment.

2. Procedure

The procedure for antibody identification of platelet antibodies involves several key steps to ensure accurate results. The following outlines the procedural steps as described in the provided data:

  • Step 1: Blood Sample Collection A blood sample is obtained from the patient, which serves as the primary specimen for the test. Proper venipuncture techniques are employed to ensure the integrity of the sample.
  • Step 2: Sample Processing The collected blood sample is processed in the laboratory to isolate the plasma or serum, which contains the antibodies of interest. This step is critical for the subsequent analysis.
  • Step 3: Antibody Detection The test is performed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and flow cytometry techniques. These methods allow for the detection of antibodies against platelet glycoproteins and Class I human leukocyte antigens (HLA), providing detailed information about the presence and type of antibodies.
  • Step 4: Result Interpretation The results of the test are interpreted in conjunction with clinical information and other laboratory findings. This comprehensive approach helps in diagnosing conditions such as neonatal alloimmune thrombocytopenia and post-transfusion purpura.

3. Post-Procedure

After the antibody identification test is performed, the patient may not require any specific post-procedure care, as the test is minimally invasive and involves only a blood draw. However, it is essential for healthcare providers to monitor the patient for any potential reactions or complications related to the blood sample collection. The results of the test will be communicated to the healthcare provider, who will then discuss the findings with the patient and determine the appropriate next steps in management based on the identified antibodies and the clinical context. Follow-up testing or additional evaluations may be necessary depending on the results and the patient's overall health status.

Short Descr PLATELET ANTIBODIES
Medium Descr ANTIBODY IDENTIFICATION PLATELET ANTIBODIES
Long Descr Antibody identification; platelet antibodies
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 1
CCS Clinical Classification 235 - Other Laboratory
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.
26 Professional component: certain procedures are a combination of a physician or other qualified health care professional component and a technical component. when the physician or other qualified health care professional component is reported separately, the service may be identified by adding modifier 26 to the usual procedure number.
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.
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
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