CPT® Code 86738

The CPT® Code 86738 refers to a laboratory test that measures antibodies specific to mycoplasma, a genus of bacteria known for its unique characteristics. Mycoplasma organisms are the smallest free-living entities and are notable for their lack of a cell wall surrounding their cell membrane. This absence of a cell wall renders them resistant to many common antibiotics, particularly those that target cell wall synthesis, such as penicillin and other beta-lactam antibiotics. Mycoplasma is implicated in a variety of infections, with Mycoplasma pneumoniae being a significant pathogen associated with 'atypical' pneumonia. This form of pneumonia is typically mild and self-limiting, presenting symptoms such as bronchitis, runny nose, and cough. In addition to respiratory infections, Mycoplasma pneumoniae can lead to ocular complications, including conjunctivitis, swelling of the optic disk, iritis, retinal hemorrhage, and optic neuropathy. Other species, such as Mycoplasma hominis and Ureaplasma urealyticum, are associated with sexually transmitted infections, leading to conditions like urethritis and vaginitis, and can be transmitted to newborns during childbirth. Infants and individuals with compromised immune systems are particularly vulnerable to chronic or severe infections caused by these organisms. Due to the difficulty in culturing mycoplasma, antibody testing becomes a crucial diagnostic tool to identify these bacteria as potential causes of illness. The test measures different types of antibodies: a positive IgM titer indicates a current or recent infection, while a positive IgG titer, which is found in over 50 percent of serum samples, suggests past exposure to the organism. Additionally, IgA antibody titers may be assessed alongside IgM and IgG to provide further diagnostic information. The blood sample required for this test is obtained through a separately reportable venipuncture, and serum is analyzed for IgM, IgG, and IgA antibodies using a semi-quantitative enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method.