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Leukocyte phagocytosis is a critical immunological process involving the body's white blood cells, known as leukocytes, which play a vital role in the immune response. These cells are produced and stored in lymphoid organs, such as the spleen and lymph nodes, as well as in various tissues throughout the body. Once produced, leukocytes circulate through the lymphatic system and bloodstream, where they are tasked with identifying and eliminating invading pathogens, including bacteria and viruses. Among the different types of leukocytes, neutrophils are particularly significant as they are specialized in targeting and destroying bacteria. The leukocyte phagocytosis test quantitatively assesses the ability of neutrophils to ingest bacteria, providing valuable insights into the immune system's functionality. This test measures the percentage of neutrophils that have successfully ingested bacteria and counts the number of bacteria per cell. To perform this test, a whole blood sample is collected and incubated with labeled Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria. The phagocytosis process is then halted by adding a quenching solution, which differentiates between bacteria that are merely attached to the cell surface and those that have been internalized. This is achieved by quenching the fluorescence of surface-bound bacteria while preserving the fluorescence of those that have been ingested. Following this, a lysing solution is introduced to eliminate red blood cells and fix the leukocytes for analysis. The sample undergoes washing, and a DNA staining solution is applied to exclude non-target aggregates. Finally, flow cytometry is utilized to analyze the sample, allowing for precise quantification of the phagocytic activity of neutrophils.
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The leukocyte phagocytosis test is indicated for various clinical scenarios where the assessment of immune function is necessary. This includes:
The leukocyte phagocytosis test involves several detailed procedural steps to ensure accurate measurement of neutrophil activity. These steps include:
After the leukocyte phagocytosis test is completed, there are no specific post-procedure care requirements mentioned. However, it is essential for healthcare providers to monitor the patient for any potential adverse reactions related to the blood draw. The results of the test will be analyzed and interpreted by qualified professionals, who will then discuss the findings with the patient and determine any necessary follow-up actions based on the results.
| Short Descr | LEUKOCYTE PHAGOCYTOSIS | Medium Descr | LEUKOCYTE PHAGOCYTOSIS | Long Descr | Leukocyte phagocytosis | 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 | 1 | 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. | Q4 | Service for ordering/referring physician qualifies as a service exemption |
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| Pre-1990 | Added | Code added. |
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