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The CPT® Code 86710 refers to a laboratory test specifically designed to measure antibodies against the influenza virus, which includes both influenza A and B types. Influenza is primarily recognized as a mild upper respiratory illness; however, it can escalate into more severe conditions such as lower respiratory pneumonia. Influenza type A is particularly concerning for vulnerable populations, especially children under the age of 2 years, as it can lead to serious complications including croup, bronchitis, pneumonia, and can exacerbate asthmatic episodes and chronic pulmonary issues. In contrast, influenza type B is generally less severe and tends to cause more localized outbreaks. Notably, influenza type B does not respond to antiviral treatments, unlike type A, which has shown responsiveness to the antiviral medication amantadine. The measurement of antibodies is particularly valuable in clinical scenarios where the influenza virus cannot be isolated successfully from a patient sample. The presence of elevated IgA antibodies for both types of influenza indicates either a current or past infection, while elevated IgM antibodies are indicative of a current or recent infection. To perform this test, a blood sample is collected through a procedure known as venipuncture, which is reported separately. The serum obtained from the blood sample is then analyzed using a semi-quantitative enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method, which allows for the detection and quantification of the influenza antibodies present in the serum.
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The CPT® Code 86710 is indicated for use in various clinical scenarios where the measurement of influenza virus antibodies is necessary. The following conditions may warrant this laboratory test:
The procedure for conducting the test associated with CPT® Code 86710 involves several key steps, which are outlined as follows:
After the procedure, patients may experience minor discomfort or bruising at the venipuncture site, which typically resolves quickly. There are no specific post-procedure care instructions required for this test, but patients are generally advised to maintain hydration and can resume normal activities immediately. The results of the antibody test will be communicated to the ordering physician, who will interpret the findings in the context of the patient's clinical presentation and history. Follow-up may be necessary based on the results, particularly if elevated antibody levels indicate a current or recent infection.
| Short Descr | INFLUENZA VIRUS ANTIBODY | Medium Descr | ANTIBODY INFLUENZA VIRUS | Long Descr | Antibody; influenza virus | 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 | 4 | CCS Clinical Classification | 235 - Other Laboratory |
| GW | Service not related to the hospice patient's terminal condition | 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. | GV | Attending physician not employed or paid under arrangement by the patient's hospice provider |
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| 2013-01-01 | Changed | Medium Descriptor changed. |
| 1993-01-01 | Added | First appearance in code book in 1993. |
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