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The CPT® Code 86638 refers to a laboratory test specifically designed to measure antibodies against Coxiella burnetii, the bacterium responsible for Q fever. This test is crucial for diagnosing infections caused by C. burnetii, which can lead to both acute and chronic health issues in humans. The bacterium is prevalent in various animal species and is often transmitted to humans through several routes, including inhalation of contaminated dust, ingestion of unpasteurized dairy products, or through tick bites. Following exposure, individuals may experience acute symptoms such as fever, malaise, chills, and respiratory issues within 2 to 3 weeks. If the infection is not adequately treated, it can progress to chronic conditions, including severe complications like endocarditis and infections affecting the liver and reproductive organs. The test involves obtaining a blood sample through venipuncture, which is then analyzed for specific antibodies. The presence of IgG antibodies is assessed using semi-quantitative indirect fluorescence, while both IgG and IgM antibodies are evaluated through an immunofluorescence assay. Understanding the results of this test is essential for determining the phase of the infection and guiding appropriate treatment strategies.
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The CPT® Code 86638 is indicated for use in the diagnosis of infections caused by Coxiella burnetii, particularly in patients presenting with symptoms consistent with Q fever. The following conditions and symptoms may warrant the performance of this laboratory test:
The procedure for performing the test associated with CPT® Code 86638 involves several key steps to ensure accurate measurement of Coxiella burnetii antibodies:
Post-procedure care for the patient typically involves monitoring the venipuncture site for any signs of bleeding or infection. Patients may be advised to apply pressure to the site and keep it clean and dry. The results of the antibody tests will be interpreted by a healthcare professional, who will consider the patient's clinical history and symptoms to determine the appropriate course of action. Follow-up may be necessary to discuss the results and any further testing or treatment that may be required based on the findings.
| Short Descr | Q FEVER ANTIBODY | Medium Descr | ANTIBODY COXIELLA BURNETII Q FEVER | Long Descr | Antibody; Coxiella burnetii (Q fever) | 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 | 6 | 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. | 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 | GZ | Item or service expected to be denied as not reasonable and necessary | Q4 | Service for ordering/referring physician qualifies as a service exemption |
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| 2004-01-01 | Changed | Code description changed. |
| 1993-01-01 | Added | First appearance in code book in 1993. |
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