CPT® Code 86784

Official Description

Antibody; Trichinella

Common Language Description

The CPT® Code 86784 refers to a laboratory test specifically designed to measure antibodies against Trichinella, a parasitic worm that can infect humans through the consumption of raw or undercooked meat. Trichinella is known to be transmitted by various animals, including domestic pigs, wild boar, wild cats, foxes, dogs, horses, seals, and walruses. These animals can harbor the larvae of the parasite, which are present in the meat in the form of cysts. When ingested, these cysts hatch in the intestines, allowing the larvae to enter the bloodstream and migrate to muscle tissues. The infection can lead to a range of symptoms, such as headache, fever, chills, cough, swelling of the face and eyes, as well as muscle and joint pain. In more severe cases, the infection can impair muscle coordination and may result in complications affecting the heart and lungs. To perform this test, a blood sample is collected, typically through a venipuncture, which is a separately reportable procedure. The serum obtained from the blood is then analyzed using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to detect the presence of Trichinella antibodies, providing crucial information for diagnosis and management of the infection.

1. Indications

The antibody test for Trichinella (CPT® Code 86784) is indicated for the following conditions:

Suspected Trichinellosis Patients presenting with symptoms consistent with Trichinella infection, such as headache, fever, chills, cough, facial and ocular swelling, and muscle and joint pain.
History of Consumption Individuals with a history of consuming raw or undercooked meat from animals known to harbor Trichinella, including domestic pigs and wild boar.
Monitoring Severe Infections Patients with severe manifestations of Trichinellosis, where muscle coordination is affected, or there are complications involving the heart and lungs.

2. Procedure

The procedure for testing Trichinella antibodies involves several key steps:

Step 1: Patient Preparation The patient may be advised to avoid certain medications or supplements that could interfere with the test results. It is essential to ensure that the patient understands the importance of the test and what it entails.
Step 2: Venipuncture A qualified healthcare professional performs a venipuncture to obtain a blood sample. This involves inserting a needle into a vein, typically in the arm, to draw blood. The procedure is performed using sterile techniques to minimize the risk of infection.
Step 3: Serum Separation Once the blood sample is collected, it is processed to separate the serum from the blood cells. This is typically done by allowing the blood to clot and then centrifuging it to separate the components.
Step 4: Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) The serum is then subjected to an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), a laboratory technique used to detect the presence of specific antibodies against Trichinella. The results of this assay will indicate whether the patient has been exposed to the parasite.

3. Post-Procedure

After the procedure, the patient may experience minor discomfort at the venipuncture site, which typically resolves quickly. There are no specific post-procedure care instructions required for this test, but patients should be informed about potential symptoms of Trichinellosis and advised to seek medical attention if they experience any concerning symptoms. The results of the antibody test will be interpreted by a healthcare provider, who will discuss the findings and any necessary follow-up actions based on the results.

Short Descr	TRICHINELLA ANTIBODY
Medium Descr	ANTIBODY TRICHINELLA
Long Descr	Antibody; Trichinella
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	1
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.