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The CPT® Code 86641 refers to a laboratory test specifically designed to measure the presence of antibodies against Cryptococcus neoformans, a pathogenic fungus. This organism is encapsulated and is primarily found in environments contaminated with bird droppings. Individuals who are immunocompromised, such as those with HIV/AIDS or other conditions that weaken the immune system, are particularly vulnerable to infections caused by C. neoformans. The infection typically occurs through inhalation, leading to respiratory issues such as pneumonia, and can progress to more severe complications, including extra-pulmonary tissue infections. Once the fungus enters the lungs, it has the potential to disseminate to the central nervous system, resulting in conditions like acute, subacute, or chronic meningoencephalitis. In addition to neurological symptoms, infections may also manifest as lesions on the skin and bones. To perform this test, a blood sample is collected, which is reported separately as a venipuncture procedure. The serum obtained from the blood is then analyzed using techniques such as agglutination or indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to detect the antibodies specific to Cryptococcus neoformans.
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The antibody test for Cryptococcus neoformans (CPT® Code 86641) is indicated for the following conditions:
The procedure for testing antibodies against Cryptococcus neoformans involves several key steps:
Post-procedure care primarily involves monitoring the patient for any immediate complications related to the venipuncture, such as bleeding or bruising at the site. Patients are generally advised to maintain hydration and may be instructed to apply pressure to the venipuncture site to minimize bleeding. The results of the antibody test will typically be available within a specified timeframe, depending on the laboratory's processing capabilities. Physicians will use these results in conjunction with clinical findings to determine the appropriate course of action for the patient, including potential treatment options if an infection is confirmed.
| Short Descr | CRYPTOCOCCUS ANTIBODY | Medium Descr | ANTIBODY CRYPTOCOCCUS | Long Descr | Antibody; Cryptococcus | 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 |
| 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. | 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. |
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| 1993-01-01 | Added | First appearance in code book in 1993. |
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