CPT® Code 86729

Official Description

Antibody; lymphogranuloma venereum

Common Language Description

The CPT® Code 86729 refers to the laboratory test for antibodies to lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV), which is a sexually transmitted infection caused by specific strains of the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis, namely serovars L1, L2, and L3. This test involves analyzing a blood sample to detect the presence of antibodies that indicate an immune response to the infection. LGV is characterized by its ability to enter the lymphatic system through breaks in the skin or mucous membranes, leading to a series of clinical manifestations as the organism proliferates within the lymph nodes. The disease progresses through three distinct stages: the primary stage presents as a painless ulcer at the infection site; the secondary stage is marked by painful inflammation of the lymph nodes, particularly affecting the inguinal nodes in heterosexual men and the perirectal nodes in homosexual men; and the third stage can lead to severe complications such as anogenitorectal syndrome, which includes strictures and significant swelling of the genital area. The testing for LGV antibodies is typically conducted using a technique called microimmunofluorescence, and it may be necessary to test for each serovar individually, allowing for the possibility of reporting the code multiple times based on the tests performed.

1. Indications

The antibody test for lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV) is indicated for the following conditions:

Sexually Transmitted Infection Screening The test is performed to screen individuals who may have been exposed to LGV, particularly in populations at higher risk, such as sexually active individuals with multiple partners.
Diagnosis of LGV The test aids in the diagnosis of LGV in patients presenting with symptoms consistent with the infection, including ulcerations, lymphadenopathy, or anogenitorectal syndrome.
Monitoring Disease Progression The test may be used to monitor the immune response in patients diagnosed with LGV, helping to assess the effectiveness of treatment.

2. Procedure

The procedure for testing antibodies to lymphogranuloma venereum 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 sent to a laboratory where it undergoes processing. This may include centrifugation to separate serum from blood cells, preparing the sample for analysis.
Antibody Testing The laboratory performs the antibody test using the microimmunofluorescence technique. This method involves exposing the serum to specific antigens related to the LGV serovars, allowing for the detection of antibodies that indicate an immune response to the infection.
Result Interpretation After the testing is complete, the laboratory interprets the results. A positive result indicates the presence of antibodies to LGV, suggesting a current or past infection, while a negative result suggests no detectable antibodies.
Reporting The results are compiled and reported to the healthcare provider, who will then discuss the findings with the patient and determine any necessary follow-up actions or treatments.

3. Post-Procedure

After the antibody testing for lymphogranuloma venereum, patients may be advised on the following post-procedure considerations:

Patients should await the results of the test, which may take several days. If the test is positive, further evaluation and treatment options will be discussed with the healthcare provider. It is important for patients to inform their sexual partners about the diagnosis, as LGV is a sexually transmitted infection that requires partner notification and treatment to prevent further transmission. Additionally, patients may be monitored for any symptoms or complications associated with LGV, and follow-up appointments may be scheduled to assess treatment efficacy and overall health.

Short Descr	LYMPHO VENEREUM ANTIBODY
Medium Descr	ANTIBODY LYMPHOGRANULOMA VENEREUM
Long Descr	Antibody; lymphogranuloma venereum
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
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	Not applicable/unspecified.
CCS Clinical Classification	235 - Other Laboratory