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Official Description

Antibody; parvovirus

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The CPT® Code 86747 refers to a laboratory test specifically designed to measure antibodies against parvovirus B19. Parvovirus B19 is known to cause a mild rash illness commonly referred to as Fifth disease or Erythema infectiosum. This condition is characterized by several symptoms, including fever, runny nose, and headache, which are often followed by a distinctive 'slapped cheek' rash on the face and a typically itchy, lace-like rash on the body. In some cases, adults and certain children may also experience joint pain and swelling as a result of the infection. The transmission of parvovirus B19 occurs primarily through respiratory droplets, and it can also be transmitted to an unborn baby through placental transfer, posing potential risks during pregnancy. The laboratory test for parvovirus B19 antibodies involves the collection of a blood sample, which is obtained through a procedure known as venipuncture. The serum from this blood sample is then analyzed using a semi-quantitative enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to detect the presence of specific antibodies. A positive result for IgM antibodies indicates a current or recent infection, while a positive result for IgG antibodies suggests either a current or past infection with the virus. It is important to note that IgM antibodies may sometimes remain detectable for more than 12 months following the initial infection.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The laboratory test coded as CPT® 86747 is indicated for the following conditions:

  • Fifth Disease (Erythema infectiosum) - This test is performed to confirm the presence of parvovirus B19 antibodies in patients exhibiting symptoms of Fifth disease, which include fever, runny nose, headache, and characteristic rashes.
  • Joint Pain and Swelling - Adults and some children presenting with joint pain and swelling may be tested for parvovirus B19 to determine if the virus is the underlying cause of their symptoms.
  • Pregnancy Monitoring - Pregnant women may be tested for parvovirus B19 antibodies to assess the risk of transmission to the fetus, especially if they exhibit symptoms or have been exposed to the virus.

2. Procedure

The procedure for conducting the antibody test for parvovirus B19 involves several key steps:

  • Step 1: Patient Preparation - The patient may be instructed to provide a blood sample, which typically requires no special preparation. However, it is essential to inform the healthcare provider of any medications or health conditions that may affect the test results.
  • Step 2: Venipuncture - A qualified healthcare professional performs venipuncture to obtain a blood sample. This involves inserting a needle into a vein, usually in the arm, to draw blood into a collection tube. Proper aseptic techniques are employed to minimize the risk of infection.
  • Step 3: Serum Separation - After the blood sample is collected, it is processed in the laboratory to separate the serum from the blood cells. This is typically done by centrifugation, which spins the sample at high speed to separate components based on density.
  • Step 4: Testing - The serum is then subjected to a semi-quantitative enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to detect the presence of IgM and IgG antibodies specific to parvovirus B19. This assay allows for the measurement of antibody levels, providing insight into current or past infections.
  • Step 5: Result Interpretation - The laboratory analyzes the results, determining whether the IgM or IgG antibodies are present. A positive IgM result indicates a current or recent infection, while a positive IgG result suggests a past infection. The results are then reported to the healthcare provider for further evaluation and management.

3. Post-Procedure

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 should be advised to monitor the site for any signs of excessive bleeding or infection. The healthcare provider will discuss the test results with the patient, including any necessary follow-up actions based on the presence of antibodies and the patient's clinical condition. If the test indicates a current infection, appropriate management and monitoring may be recommended, especially for pregnant women to assess any potential risks to the fetus.

Short Descr PARVOVIRUS ANTIBODY
Medium Descr ANTIBODY PARVOVIRUS
Long Descr Antibody; parvovirus
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
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.
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.
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.
76 Repeat procedure or service by same physician or other qualified health care professional: it may be necessary to indicate that a procedure or service was repeated by the same physician or other qualified health care professional subsequent to the original procedure or service. this circumstance may be reported by adding modifier 76 to the repeated procedure or service. note: this modifier should not be appended to an e/m service.
GY Item or service statutorily excluded, does not meet the definition of any medicare benefit or, for non-medicare insurers, is not a contract benefit
Date
Action
Notes
1993-01-01 Added First appearance in code book in 1993.
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Description
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