CPT® Code 86355

The CPT® Code 86355 refers to a laboratory test that measures the total count of B cells in a blood sample. B cells are a type of white blood cell that plays a crucial role in the immune system, particularly in the production of antibodies. This test is essential for evaluating immune function and is often performed alongside other related tests to provide a comprehensive assessment of a patient's immune status. The total B-cell count can help in diagnosing various conditions, including chronic lymphocytic leukemia, multiple myeloma, Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia, and DiGeorge syndrome, which are associated with elevated B lymphocyte levels. Conversely, decreased B-cell counts may indicate conditions such as acute lymphocytic leukemia and congenital immunoglobulin deficiency syndrome. The procedure involves obtaining a blood sample through venipuncture, which is separately reportable, and the analysis is conducted using quantitative flow cytometry, a sophisticated technique that allows for precise measurement of cell populations in the blood.