CPT® Code 86590

The CPT® Code 86590 refers to a laboratory test that measures the presence of streptokinase antibodies in the blood. Streptokinase is an enzyme that is produced by specific strains of streptococcus bacteria and plays a crucial role in the process of thrombolysis, which is the breakdown of blood clots. This enzyme works by converting plasminogen, a precursor protein, into plasmin, the active enzyme that dissolves fibrin clots. The presence of streptokinase antibodies in a patient's blood can indicate an immune response to streptokinase, which may lead to resistance against its anticoagulant effects. This resistance can result in suboptimal outcomes during thrombolytic therapy, where the goal is to effectively dissolve blood clots. To perform this test, a blood sample is collected through a procedure known as venipuncture, which is reported separately. The analysis of the sample is typically conducted using either a rapid latex-bead assay or an enzyme immunoassay, both of which are methods designed to detect the specific antibodies present in the blood.