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Official Description

Skin test; coccidioidomycosis

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

Coccidioidomycosis, commonly known as Valley Fever, is an infectious disease caused by the soil-dwelling fungus Coccidioides immitis, which is primarily found in specific geographic regions such as Southern California, the Southwestern United States, Northwestern Mexico, and certain areas of Central and South America. The skin test for coccidioidomycosis is a diagnostic procedure designed to evaluate the cellular immune response of individuals who may have been exposed to this fungus. During the test, a small amount of the fungal antigen is introduced into the skin through a pinprick. This method allows healthcare providers to assess whether the immune system has previously encountered the fungus. A positive reaction at the test site may suggest either an active infection or a history of exposure to the fungus, indicating that the individual's immune system has responded to the antigen. The test is crucial for diagnosing coccidioidomycosis, especially in patients presenting with symptoms consistent with the disease, as it helps differentiate between active and past infections.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The skin test for coccidioidomycosis is indicated for individuals who have had potential exposure to the Coccidioides fungus. The following conditions may warrant the performance of this test:

  • Exposure History Individuals who have been in areas where the fungus is endemic and have had potential exposure to contaminated soil.
  • Symptoms of Infection Patients presenting with clinical symptoms suggestive of coccidioidomycosis, such as fever, cough, chest pain, or fatigue.
  • Immunocompromised Status Individuals with weakened immune systems who may be at higher risk for severe disease if infected.

2. Procedure

The procedure for conducting a skin test for coccidioidomycosis involves several key steps to ensure accurate results:

  • Preparation The healthcare provider prepares the skin test by selecting an appropriate site, typically on the forearm, and cleans the area with an antiseptic solution to minimize the risk of infection.
  • Administration of Antigen A small amount of coccidioides antigen is injected intradermally into the skin using a fine needle. This is done through a pinprick technique, which allows the antigen to be introduced just beneath the surface of the skin.
  • Observation After the antigen is administered, the test site is monitored for a reaction. The healthcare provider will instruct the patient to return for evaluation, typically within 48 to 72 hours, to assess the skin's response to the antigen.
  • Reading the Results Upon return, the healthcare provider examines the injection site for any induration (swelling) or erythema (redness). A positive reaction is characterized by a specific size of induration, which indicates a cellular immune response to the antigen.

3. Post-Procedure

After the skin test for coccidioidomycosis is performed, patients are advised to keep the test site clean and dry. They should avoid scratching or irritating the area to prevent false results. The healthcare provider will schedule a follow-up appointment to evaluate the test results. If the test is positive, further diagnostic evaluation may be necessary to determine if there is an active infection or if the individual has a history of exposure. Patients should be informed about potential symptoms of coccidioidomycosis and advised to seek medical attention if they experience any concerning signs following the test.

Short Descr COCCIDIOIDOMYCOSIS SKIN TEST
Medium Descr SKIN TEST COCCIDIOIDOMYCOSIS
Long Descr Skin test; coccidioidomycosis
Status Code Active Code
Global Days XXX - Global Concept Does Not Apply
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) 3 - Technical Component Only Code
Multiple Procedures (51) 0 - No payment adjustment rules for multiple procedures apply.
Bilateral Surgery (50) 0 - 150% payment adjustment for bilateral procedures does NOT apply.
Physician Supervisions 09 - Concept does not apply.
Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) 0 - Payment restriction for assistants at surgery applies to this procedure...
Co-Surgeons (62) 0 - Co-surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Team Surgery (66) 0 - Team surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Diagnostic Imaging Family 99 - Concept Does Not Apply
APC Status Indicator STV-Packaged Codes
Type of Service (TOS) 5 - Diagnostic Laboratory
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) T1G - Lab tests - other (Medicare fee schedule)
MUE Not applicable/unspecified.
CCS Clinical Classification 235 - Other Laboratory
Date
Action
Notes
2024-12-31 Deleted Code Deleted.
Pre-1990 Added Code added.
Code
Description
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