Coding Ahead
CasePilot
Medical Coding Assistant
Case2Code
Search and Code Lookup Tool
CareerCenter
Medical Coding Job Board
Log in Register free account

Need help choosing the right code?

Ask CasePilot about procedures, modifiers, bundling, and coding guidance.

Try CasePilot

Official Description

Antibody to human leukocyte antigens (HLA), solid phase assays (eg, microspheres or beads, ELISA, Flow cytometry); semi-quantitative panel (eg, titer), HLA Class II

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The human leukocyte antigen (HLA) system is a critical component of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC), which plays a vital role in the immune system's ability to recognize self from non-self. This system is essential for the identification of specific characteristics of an individual's cells and tissues, thereby enabling the body to defend itself against foreign substances, including microorganisms and non-self cells and tissues. The HLA system is divided into two main classes: Class I and Class II. The semi-quantitative analysis of HLA, particularly for Class II, is performed using various solid phase assays, such as microspheres or beads, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and flow cytometry. This testing is crucial for monitoring pre-transplant desensitization protocols for potential transplant recipients who have developed sensitization, as well as for assessing the treatment of antibody-mediated rejection following transplantation. The semi-quantitative panel with titer for HLA Class II is specifically designed to provide insights into the immune response and compatibility of transplant candidates. For HLA Class I testing, a different code, 86834, is utilized, while 86835 is designated for the semi-quantitative panel with titer for HLA Class II.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The semi-quantitative panel for HLA Class II is indicated for specific clinical scenarios, particularly in the context of transplantation. The following conditions warrant the use of this procedure:

  • Pre-Transplant Sensitization: This test is performed to monitor potential transplant recipients who are sensitized, meaning they have developed antibodies against donor HLA antigens, which can complicate transplantation efforts.
  • Antibody-Mediated Rejection Monitoring: Following transplantation, this procedure is utilized to assess and monitor the treatment of antibody-mediated rejection, a condition where the recipient's immune system attacks the transplanted organ due to the presence of antibodies against the donor's HLA.

2. Procedure

The procedure for conducting a semi-quantitative panel for HLA Class II involves several key steps, which are outlined below:

  • Sample Collection: A blood sample is collected from the patient, which will be used for the analysis of HLA antibodies. This sample is essential for determining the presence and levels of antibodies against HLA Class II antigens.
  • Preparation of Assay Components: The laboratory prepares the assay components, which may include microspheres or beads coated with specific HLA molecules. These components are crucial for the detection of antibodies in the patient's serum.
  • Conducting the Assay: The semi-quantitative analysis is performed using techniques such as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) or flow cytometry. The patient's serum is incubated with the prepared beads or microspheres, allowing any present antibodies to bind to the HLA antigens.
  • Detection and Quantification: Following incubation, the bound antibodies are detected using fluorescent markers. The intensity of the fluorescence is measured, providing a semi-quantitative assessment of the antibody levels against HLA Class II antigens.
  • Result Interpretation: The results are analyzed and interpreted by laboratory personnel, who will provide a report detailing the presence and titer of HLA Class II antibodies, which is critical for clinical decision-making regarding transplantation.

3. Post-Procedure

After the semi-quantitative panel for HLA Class II has been completed, the results are typically reviewed by the healthcare provider involved in the patient's care. The interpretation of these results is essential for determining the next steps in the management of the patient, particularly in the context of transplantation. If the test indicates high levels of antibodies, further evaluation and potential desensitization protocols may be necessary before proceeding with transplantation. Additionally, ongoing monitoring may be required to assess the effectiveness of any treatments initiated in response to the findings. It is important for healthcare providers to communicate the results to the patient and discuss any implications for their treatment plan.

Short Descr HLA CLASS II SEMIQUANT PANEL
Medium Descr ANTIBODY HLA CLASS II SEMIQUANTITATIVE PANEL
Long Descr Antibody to human leukocyte antigens (HLA), solid phase assays (eg, microspheres or beads, ELISA, Flow cytometry); semi-quantitative panel (eg, titer), HLA Class II
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
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.
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.
Date
Action
Notes
2013-01-01 Added Added
Code
Description
Code
Description
CasePilot

Get instant expert-level medical coding assistance.

Ask about:
CPT Codes Guidelines Modifiers Crosswalks NCCI Edits Compliance Medicare Coverage
Example: "What is CPT code 99213?" or "Guidelines for E/M services"