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The CPT® Code 86622 refers to a laboratory test specifically designed to measure the presence of antibodies against the Brucella bacteria. Brucella is a genus of bacteria that primarily infects animals, particularly livestock, but can also infect humans, especially those who consume unpasteurized or raw dairy products. The transmission of Brucella to humans can occur through various routes, including ingestion, inhalation, or direct skin contact, which is particularly relevant for individuals in certain occupations such as veterinarians, hunters, laboratory personnel, and workers in meatpacking or slaughterhouse environments. Following exposure to the bacteria, symptoms of infection may manifest within a timeframe of 2 to 4 weeks. Common symptoms associated with brucellosis include fever, profuse sweating, headaches, muscle and joint pain, and general fatigue. The presence of a positive Brucella antibody titer is indicative of a brucellosis infection, particularly when accompanied by clinical symptoms and a documented history of potential exposure to the bacteria. To conduct this test, a blood sample is collected, which is reported separately as a venipuncture procedure. The serum obtained from the blood sample is then analyzed using a semi-quantitative agglutination method to determine the level of Brucella antibodies present.
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The Brucella antibody test (CPT® Code 86622) is indicated for individuals who may have been exposed to Brucella bacteria and are exhibiting symptoms consistent with brucellosis. The following conditions and situations warrant the performance of this test:
The procedure for testing Brucella antibodies involves several key steps that ensure accurate results. First, a qualified healthcare professional will perform a venipuncture to obtain a blood sample from the patient. This step is crucial as it allows for the collection of serum, which is necessary for the subsequent testing. The blood sample is then processed in a laboratory setting where the serum is separated from the cellular components of the blood. Following this, the serum is subjected to a semi-quantitative agglutination test. This testing method involves mixing the serum with specific antigens that react with Brucella antibodies, if present. The degree of agglutination observed is measured and interpreted to determine the presence and level of Brucella antibodies in the serum, which aids in diagnosing potential brucellosis infection.
After the Brucella antibody test is completed, the patient may experience minimal to no discomfort from the venipuncture. It is generally recommended that patients remain hydrated and follow any specific post-procedure instructions provided by the healthcare professional. Results from the test are typically available within a few days, and it is important for patients to follow up with their healthcare provider to discuss the findings and any necessary next steps, especially if the test indicates a positive result for Brucella antibodies. Further clinical evaluation and management may be required based on the test results and the patient's clinical presentation.
| Short Descr | BRUCELLA ANTIBODY | Medium Descr | ANTIBODY BRUCELLA | Long Descr | Antibody; Brucella | 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 | 2 | 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. | 91 | Repeat clinical diagnostic laboratory test: in the course of treatment of the patient, it may be necessary to repeat the same laboratory test on the same day to obtain subsequent (multiple) test results. under these circumstances, the laboratory test performed can be identified by its usual procedure number and the addition of modifier 91. note: this modifier may not be used when tests are rerun to confirm initial results; due to testing problems with specimens or equipment; or for any other reason when a normal, one-time, reportable result is all that is required. this modifier may not be used when other code(s) describe a series of test results (eg, glucose tolerance tests, evocative/suppression testing). this modifier may only be used for laboratory test(s) performed more than once on the same day on the same patient. | 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. | GW | Service not related to the hospice patient's terminal condition | GY | Item or service statutorily excluded, does not meet the definition of any medicare benefit or, for non-medicare insurers, is not a contract benefit | Q4 | Service for ordering/referring physician qualifies as a service exemption |
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| 1993-01-01 | Added | First appearance in code book in 1993. |
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