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Official Description

Stem cells (ie, CD34), total count

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The CPT® Code 86367 refers to a laboratory test that quantifies the total count of CD34 stem cells. CD34 is a specific cell surface glycoprotein that plays a crucial role in the attachment of stem cells to the extracellular matrix of bone marrow or directly to stromal cells, which are supportive cells found in various tissues. This molecule is also essential for the migration of T cells into lymph nodes, highlighting its importance in the immune response. The measurement of CD34 stem cells is particularly significant for patients who are preparing for either autologous (using the patient's own stem cells) or allogenic (using stem cells from a donor) stem cell transplants. To perform this test, a blood sample is collected through a procedure known as venipuncture, which is separately reportable. The analysis of the whole blood sample is conducted using advanced techniques such as multi-colored immunofluorescence and flow cytometry, which allow for precise quantification and purification of hematopoietic progenitor stem cells. This detailed assessment is vital for determining the appropriate treatment plan and ensuring the best possible outcomes for patients undergoing stem cell transplantation.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The CD34 stem cell count is performed for several specific indications, particularly in the context of stem cell transplantation. The following conditions or situations may warrant this laboratory test:

  • Preparation for Autologous Stem Cell Transplant Patients who are preparing to undergo an autologous stem cell transplant require a CD34 count to ensure an adequate number of stem cells are available for the procedure.
  • Preparation for Allogenic Stem Cell Transplant Similarly, individuals preparing for an allogenic stem cell transplant need to have their CD34 stem cell levels assessed to determine the suitability and readiness of the stem cell source.
  • Assessment of Hematopoietic Progenitor Cells The test is also indicated for evaluating the quantity of hematopoietic progenitor cells in patients with certain hematological conditions, which may affect treatment decisions.

2. Procedure

The procedure for obtaining a CD34 stem cell count involves several key steps that ensure accurate measurement and analysis. The following outlines the procedural steps:

  • Step 1: Venipuncture A qualified healthcare professional performs a venipuncture to collect a blood sample from the patient. This step is crucial as it provides the whole blood necessary for subsequent testing. The site of venipuncture is typically cleaned and prepared to minimize the risk of infection.
  • Step 2: Sample Preparation Once the blood sample is collected, it is processed to prepare it for analysis. This may involve the use of anticoagulants to prevent clotting and ensure that the cells remain viable for testing.
  • Step 3: Multi-Colored Immunofluorescence The prepared blood sample undergoes multi-colored immunofluorescence, a technique that utilizes fluorescently labeled monoclonal antibodies specific to the CD34 antigen. This step allows for the identification and quantification of CD34-positive stem cells within the sample.
  • Step 4: Flow Cytometry Following immunofluorescence, flow cytometry is employed to analyze the sample. This advanced technology enables the rapid counting and sorting of cells based on their fluorescence characteristics, providing precise data on the total count of CD34 stem cells present in the blood.

3. Post-Procedure

After the CD34 stem cell count procedure, there are generally no specific post-procedure care requirements for the patient, as the venipuncture is a minimally invasive procedure. Patients may experience slight discomfort or bruising at the site of blood collection, which typically resolves quickly. The results of the CD34 count are usually communicated to the healthcare provider, who will interpret the findings in the context of the patient's overall treatment plan and may discuss the implications for any upcoming stem cell transplant procedures.

Short Descr STEM CELLS TOTAL COUNT
Medium Descr STEM CELLS TOTAL COUNT
Long Descr Stem cells (ie, CD34), total count
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
26 Professional component: certain procedures are a combination of a physician or other qualified health care professional component and a technical component. when the physician or other qualified health care professional component is reported separately, the service may be identified by adding modifier 26 to the usual procedure number.
59 Distinct procedural service: under certain circumstances, it may be necessary to indicate that a procedure or service was distinct or independent from other non-e/m services performed on the same day. modifier 59 is used to identify procedures/services, other than e/m services, that are not normally reported together, but are appropriate under the circumstances. documentation must support a different session, different procedure or surgery, different site or organ system, separate incision/excision, separate lesion, or separate injury (or area of injury in extensive injuries) not ordinarily encountered or performed on the same day by the same individual. however, when another already established modifier is appropriate it should be used rather than modifier 59. only if no more descriptive modifier is available, and the use of modifier 59 best explains the circumstances, should modifier 59 be used. note: modifier 59 should not be appended to an e/m service. to report a separate and distinct e/m service with a non-e/m service performed on the same date, see modifier 25.
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.
GW Service not related to the hospice patient's terminal condition
XU Unusual non-overlapping service, the use of a service that is distinct because it does not overlap usual components of the main service
Date
Action
Notes
2011-01-01 Changed Short description changed.
2006-01-01 Added First appearance in code book in 2006.
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Description
Code
Description
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