CPT® Code 86037

Antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA) are specific proteins produced by the immune system that target antigens located in the cytoplasmic granules of certain white blood cells, particularly neutrophils and monocytes. The presence of these antibodies is significant in the diagnosis and management of various autoimmune conditions, particularly autoimmune vasculitis. There are two primary types of ANCAs: perinuclear stained antineutrophil antibodies (pANCA), which primarily target the enzyme myeloperoxidase, and cytoplasmic stained antineutrophil antibodies (c-ANCA), which target proteinase 3. The testing for ANCAs is crucial in identifying conditions such as Wegener’s granulomatosis, polyarteritis nodosa, and microscopic polyangiitis, all of which are characterized by inflammation and damage to blood vessels. The ANCA test is performed on a venous blood sample, where serum is analyzed using an indirect immunofluorescent antibody test to detect the specific antibodies ordered. It is important to differentiate between the screening test, reported with CPT® code 86036, which provides qualitative results indicating the presence or absence of antibodies, and the titer test, reported with CPT® code 86037, which provides semi-quantitative results for each antibody, allowing for a more detailed assessment of the immune response.