CPT® Code 86750

Official Description

Antibody; Plasmodium (malaria)

Common Language Description

The CPT® Code 86750 refers to a laboratory test specifically designed to measure antibodies against Plasmodium, the parasite responsible for malaria. Malaria is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected mosquitoes, and it is caused by four distinct species of Plasmodium: P. vivax, P. ovale, P. malariae, and P. falciparum. Each species has unique characteristics and implications for human health. For instance, P. vivax and P. ovale are known to cause relapsing forms of malaria, where symptoms can persist cyclically over extended periods, sometimes lasting months or even years, due to the parasite's ability to remain dormant in the liver. In contrast, P. malariae and P. falciparum typically lead to acute illnesses that do not relapse. Notably, P. falciparum is particularly dangerous, as it can result in severe, life-threatening complications if it invades critical organs such as the brain, kidneys, or lungs, potentially leading to organ failure. Common symptoms associated with malaria include fever, chills, sweats, headache, body aches, and general malaise. In more severe cases, patients may experience additional symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, anemia, jaundice, enlarged liver and/or spleen, seizures, and even coma. It is important to note that while a positive antibody titer indicates past exposure to any of the four Plasmodium species, it is not a definitive diagnostic tool for acute malaria infections. The test is performed by obtaining a blood sample through venipuncture, which is reported separately, and the serum is analyzed using a semi-quantitative enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method.

1. Indications

The antibody test for Plasmodium (malaria) is indicated for the following conditions:

Past Exposure to Malaria This test is utilized to determine if an individual has been previously exposed to any of the four species of Plasmodium that cause malaria.
Assessment of Immune Response The test can help assess the immune response in individuals who may have had malaria in the past, providing insight into their antibody levels.
Travel History to Endemic Areas Individuals who have traveled to regions where malaria is endemic may be tested to evaluate their exposure risk.

2. Procedure

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

Step 1: Patient Preparation Prior to the test, the patient may be advised to avoid certain medications or supplements that could interfere with the test results. It is essential to gather a thorough medical history, including any symptoms of malaria and travel history to endemic areas.
Step 2: Venipuncture A qualified healthcare professional performs venipuncture to obtain a blood sample from the patient. This step is crucial as the blood sample will be used for the antibody testing. The site is typically cleaned with an antiseptic, and a tourniquet may be applied to facilitate vein visibility.
Step 3: Serum Separation After collecting the blood sample, it is processed to separate the serum from the blood cells. This is typically done by centrifugation, which allows the serum to be isolated for testing.
Step 4: Testing Using ELISA The serum is then subjected to a semi-quantitative enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). This method detects the presence of antibodies against Plasmodium in the serum, providing a measure of the immune response to past exposure.
Step 5: Result Interpretation Once the test is complete, the results are interpreted by a qualified laboratory professional. A positive result indicates past exposure to Plasmodium, while a negative result suggests no detectable antibodies.

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 unusual symptoms, such as excessive swelling or redness. The results of the antibody test will be communicated to the patient by their healthcare provider, who will discuss the implications of the findings and any necessary follow-up actions. It is important to remember that a positive antibody test does not confirm an active malaria infection and should not be used as a sole diagnostic tool for acute malaria.

Short Descr	MALARIA ANTIBODY
Medium Descr	ANTIBODY PLASMODIUM MALARIA
Long Descr	Antibody; Plasmodium (malaria)
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