CPT® Code 86329

Official Description

Immunodiffusion; not elsewhere specified

Common Language Description

The CPT® Code 86329 refers to an immunodiffusion test that is not specified elsewhere in the coding system. This procedure involves a blood test designed to measure the levels of teichoic acid antibodies (TAA) in the patient's serum. Elevated levels of TAA can be indicative of a recent staphylococcal infection, which may manifest as conditions such as endocarditis or bacteremia, particularly when there are metastatic foci of abscesses that arise due to delayed treatment. The significance of a positive TAA test lies in its ability to confirm specific bacteriological diseases more rapidly than traditional culture methods. This is particularly advantageous in clinical scenarios where obtaining cultures is challenging, such as in cases of pneumonia affecting the lungs, osteomyelitis involving the bones, or deep tissue abscesses. The test is performed by obtaining a blood sample through a venipuncture, which is a separately reportable procedure. The serum collected is then subjected to semiquantitative immunodiffusion testing to determine the presence and levels of the antibodies.

1. Indications

The immunodiffusion test represented by CPT® Code 86329 is indicated for the following conditions:

Staphylococcal Infection Elevated teichoic acid antibody levels may suggest a recent staphylococcal infection, which can include serious conditions such as endocarditis or bacteremia.
Metastatic Abscesses The test is particularly relevant in cases where there are metastatic foci of abscesses that may have developed due to delayed treatment of an initial infection.
Difficult Culture Sites The test is useful when obtaining cultures is challenging, especially from sites such as the lung (in cases of pneumonia), bone (in cases of osteomyelitis), or deep tissue abscesses.

2. Procedure

The procedure for performing the immunodiffusion test under CPT® Code 86329 involves several key steps:

Step 1: Venipuncture A blood sample is obtained from the patient through a venipuncture, which is a procedure where a needle is inserted into a vein to draw blood. This step is crucial as it provides the serum needed for the subsequent testing.
Step 2: Serum Preparation Once the blood sample is collected, it is processed to separate the serum from the cellular components. This serum is essential for the immunodiffusion testing, as it contains the antibodies that will be measured.
Step 3: Semiquantitative Immunodiffusion Testing The prepared serum is then subjected to semiquantitative immunodiffusion testing. This method allows for the measurement of teichoic acid antibody levels, providing valuable information regarding the presence of a staphylococcal infection.

3. Post-Procedure

After the immunodiffusion test is completed, the patient may be monitored for any immediate reactions to the venipuncture. The results of the test will be analyzed and interpreted by a qualified healthcare professional. If elevated TAA levels are detected, further clinical evaluation may be warranted to confirm the diagnosis of a staphylococcal infection and to determine the appropriate course of treatment. It is important to note that the test results should be considered in conjunction with other clinical findings and diagnostic tests to ensure accurate diagnosis and management.

Short Descr	IMMUNODIFFUSION NES
Medium Descr	IMMUNODIFFUSION NOT ELSEWHERE SPECIFIED
Long Descr	Immunodiffusion; not elsewhere specified
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	3
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.