CPT® Code 86226

The CPT® Code 86226 refers to a laboratory test that measures the presence of single stranded deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) antibodies, specifically the IgG type. This test is significant in the diagnostic process for various autoimmune conditions, particularly systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Elevated levels of single stranded DNA antibodies can be indicative of both active and inactive phases of SLE, as well as other medical conditions such as infectious mononucleosis, autoimmune hepatitis, acute and chronic myeloid leukemia, acute lymphatic leukemia, and juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. Additionally, drug-induced SLE may also result in increased levels of these antibodies. It is important to note that while this test focuses on single stranded DNA antibodies, it is often performed alongside a separate test for double stranded DNA antibodies, coded as 86225. This combination allows healthcare providers to calculate the ratio of double stranded DNA IgG to single stranded DNA IgG, which is crucial for differentiating SLE from other disorders. The test is conducted using a blood sample obtained through venipuncture, and the serum is analyzed using a semi-quantitative enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method, providing a reliable measure of the antibody levels present in the patient's serum.