CPT® Code 86359

The CPT® Code 86359 refers to a laboratory test that measures the total count of T cells in a blood sample. T cells are a specific type of lymphocyte, which are white blood cells that play a crucial role in the immune system, particularly in cell-mediated immunity. This test is essential for evaluating the immune function of an individual and is often ordered alongside other diagnostic tests to provide a comprehensive assessment of a patient's immune status. The measurement of T cells can reveal important information about various health conditions. For instance, elevated levels of T cells may indicate the presence of certain diseases such as infectious mononucleosis, acute lymphocytic leukemia, or multiple myeloma. Conversely, decreased T cell counts can be indicative of conditions such as congenital T-cell deficiency, Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome, or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). The testing process involves the use of quantitative flow cytometry, a sophisticated laboratory technique that allows for the precise counting and analysis of T cells in whole blood samples.