CPT® Code 86162

The CPT® Code 86162 refers to a laboratory test known as the total hemolytic complement (CH50) test. This blood test is specifically designed to measure the activity of the total hemolytic complement system, which is a crucial part of the immune response. The complement system consists of a series of proteins that work together to enhance the ability of antibodies and phagocytic cells to clear pathogens from an organism. The CH50 test evaluates the overall function of this system by assessing how well it can lyse (break down) red blood cells in the presence of complement proteins. The common language description indicates that this code can be utilized for two specific types of tests: the complement activity enzyme immunoassay and the complement activity alternative pathway test. The enzyme immunoassay is a semiquantitative test that measures the activity of the complement system, helping to identify any abnormalities or deficiencies that may be linked to various infectious diseases or inflammatory conditions, such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and vasculitis. Additionally, the alternative pathway test also evaluates the functional activity of the complement system, focusing on a different pathway within the complement cascade. Abnormal results from these tests may suggest either inherited or acquired defects in one or more components of the complement system, which can have significant implications for a patient's health. It is important to note that a blood sample for this test is obtained through a separately reportable venipuncture, ensuring that the sample is collected properly for accurate testing. The testing methodologies employed include semiquantitative enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for the complement activity enzyme test and semiquantitative radial immunodiffusion for the alternative pathway test.