CPT® Code 86215

The CPT® Code 86215 refers to a laboratory test that measures the presence of deoxyribonuclease (DNase) antibodies in the blood. DNase antibodies are specific enzymes that are produced by certain strains of beta-hemolytic streptococcus, a type of bacteria known to cause various infections. This blood test is particularly useful in the context of diagnosing streptococcal infections, especially when traditional tests such as antistreptolysin O (ASO) titers do not show elevated levels. It is important to note that DNase antibodies tend to rise more slowly compared to ASO antibodies and can remain elevated for a longer duration, making this test valuable in specific clinical scenarios. For instance, it may assist in diagnosing conditions such as Sydenham's chorea, which is a neurological disorder associated with rheumatic fever, post-streptococcal rheumatic fever itself, or glomerulonephritis, which is an inflammation of the kidney. The test is performed by obtaining a blood sample through a procedure known as venipuncture, which is separately reportable. The serum obtained from the blood sample is then analyzed using a technique called quantitative nephelometry, which allows for the precise measurement of the DNase antibody levels in the serum.