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Official Description

Antibody; Candida

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The CPT® Code 86628 refers to the laboratory test for antibodies to Candida, a type of fungus that is typically found on the skin and in mucous membranes, including areas such as the vagina, mouth, and rectum. Under normal circumstances, Candida exists harmlessly; however, it can become pathogenic and lead to an infection known as Candidiasis or moniliasis when there is a disruption in the body's chemical balance. This disruption can occur in individuals who are taking antibiotics, those with weakened immune systems, and infants, making them particularly vulnerable to Candida infections. The infections are most commonly localized to areas such as the mouth, skin, nails, or vagina, but in more severe cases, they can affect the esophagus and gastrointestinal tract. In rare instances, Candida can enter the bloodstream, leading to systemic infections that may impact vital organs such as the kidneys, heart, lungs, eyes, or brain. To diagnose a Candida infection, various testing methods are employed, including immunodiffusion and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The ELISA method is particularly notable as it measures different classes of immunoglobulins—IgA, IgG, and IgM—each of which is reported separately, providing a comprehensive overview of the immune response to the Candida fungus.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The antibody test for Candida (CPT® Code 86628) is indicated for the following conditions:

  • Suspected Candidiasis: This test is performed when there is a clinical suspicion of a Candida infection, particularly in individuals exhibiting symptoms such as oral thrush, vaginal yeast infections, or skin infections.
  • Immunocompromised Patients: Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those undergoing chemotherapy, living with HIV/AIDS, or on immunosuppressive medications, may require testing to assess their risk for Candida infections.
  • Antibiotic Use: Patients who have recently taken antibiotics may be tested for Candida, as antibiotics can disrupt normal flora and promote fungal overgrowth.
  • Infants: Newborns and infants, particularly those who are premature or have other health issues, are at increased risk for Candida infections and may be tested if symptoms arise.

2. Procedure

The procedure for testing antibodies to Candida involves several key steps:

  • Sample Collection: A blood sample is collected from the patient, typically via venipuncture. This sample serves as the basis for the antibody testing.
  • Laboratory Processing: The collected blood sample is processed in a laboratory setting. This may involve separating the serum from the blood cells to prepare it for testing.
  • Testing Method: The laboratory employs specific testing methods, such as immunodiffusion or enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), to detect the presence of antibodies against Candida. The ELISA method is particularly common and measures the levels of IgA, IgG, and IgM antibodies.
  • Result Interpretation: After the testing is completed, the results are analyzed. Each class of immunoglobulin (IgA, IgG, and IgM) is reported separately, providing detailed information about the immune response to the Candida fungus.

3. Post-Procedure

Post-procedure care for patients undergoing the Candida antibody test is generally minimal, as the blood draw is a routine procedure. Patients may be advised to drink plenty of fluids and to monitor the site of the blood draw for any signs of excessive bleeding or infection. Results from the test will typically be reviewed by the healthcare provider, who will discuss the findings with the patient and determine if any further action or treatment is necessary based on the results.

Short Descr CANDIDA ANTIBODY
Medium Descr ANTIBODY CANDIDA
Long Descr Antibody; Candida
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.
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.
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
GA Waiver of liability statement issued as required by payer policy, individual case
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.
F9 Right hand, fifth digit
G8 Monitored anesthesia care (mac) for deep complex, complicated, or markedly invasive surgical procedure
GW Service not related to the hospice patient's terminal condition
GX Notice of liability issued, voluntary under payer policy
XU Unusual non-overlapping service, the use of a service that is distinct because it does not overlap usual components of the main service
Date
Action
Notes
1993-01-01 Added First appearance in code book in 1993.
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