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The CPT® Code 86382 refers to a laboratory procedure known as a neutralization test for viruses. This test is specifically designed to measure the presence of neutralizing antibodies in a patient's blood, which are critical for determining immunity against certain viral infections, such as polio or rabies. Neutralizing antibodies are proteins produced by the immune system that can bind to viruses, preventing them from infecting cells and thereby neutralizing their harmful effects. The presence of these antibodies indicates that the individual may have developed immunity to the virus in question. One common application of this test is the rapid fluorescent focus inhibition test (RFFIT), which is particularly utilized for rabies testing. The RFFIT is typically conducted 14 to 21 days after a patient has completed an initial series of rabies vaccinations or after they have received a booster dose. For individuals who are at continuous risk of rabies exposure, such as those working with animals or in certain healthcare settings, this test may be performed every six months. Conversely, individuals with less frequent exposure may undergo testing every two years. The procedure involves obtaining a blood sample through venipuncture, which is a separately reportable procedure, and then analyzing the sample using culture and neutralization techniques to assess the presence and functionality of the antibodies against the live virus.
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The neutralization test, coded as CPT® 86382, is indicated for the following conditions:
The procedure for conducting the neutralization test involves several key steps:
After the neutralization test is completed, patients may be advised on the next steps based on their results. If the test indicates the presence of neutralizing antibodies, the patient may be informed of their immunity status. In cases where the test results are negative, further evaluation or additional vaccinations may be recommended, especially for those at high risk for exposure to the virus. Patients are typically monitored for any adverse reactions following the venipuncture, although complications are rare. It is also important for individuals who are at continuous risk for rabies exposure to adhere to the recommended testing schedule, which may involve retesting every six months or every two years, depending on their level of risk.
| Short Descr | NEUTRALIZATION TEST VIRAL | Medium Descr | NEUTRALIZATION TEST VIRAL | Long Descr | Neutralization test, viral | 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. |
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| 2011-01-01 | Changed | Short description changed. |
| Pre-1990 | Added | Code added. |
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