CPT® Code 86480

The CPT® Code 86480 refers to a specific tuberculosis test that measures the cell-mediated immunity (CMI) antigen response to Mycobacterium tuberculosis (TB) infection. This test is particularly relevant for individuals who are suspected of having TB or are at high risk for contracting the infection. The procedure involves assessing the immune response of lymphocytes in the blood to two specific proteins associated with TB: early-secreted antigenic target 6-kDa protein (ESAT-6) and culture filtrate protein (CFP-10). These proteins are critical in determining whether an individual has been exposed to TB, as they stimulate a response from the immune system. During the test, a blood sample is collected through a venipuncture, which is a separate reportable procedure. The collected blood is then exposed to the aforementioned proteins, and the immune response is measured by the secretion of cytokine interferon gamma. A positive reaction, indicated by the presence of this cytokine, suggests that the individual has a TB infection. The amount of interferon gamma produced is also taken into account for diagnostic purposes. This test is a valuable tool in the detection of TB, providing crucial information about the immune response to the infection.