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Code deleted, see 86902.

Official Description

Blood typing; antigen screening for compatible blood unit using reagent serum, per unit screened

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The procedure described by CPT® Code 86903 involves the screening of donated blood units to ensure compatibility with the recipient's blood type prior to a transfusion. This process is critical in preventing adverse reactions that can occur if incompatible blood is transfused. During the screening, specific antibodies present in the donated blood are identified, which helps determine whether the blood can be safely administered to the patient. In situations where time is of the essence, such as emergencies, a more rapid assessment may be necessary. In these cases, if there is insufficient time to conduct a thorough antibody test, healthcare providers may opt to use CPT® Code 86904, which pertains to a serum test for blood typing. This highlights the importance of timely and accurate blood typing in transfusion medicine to ensure patient safety and effective treatment outcomes.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The procedure associated with CPT® Code 86903 is indicated for the following:

  • Blood Transfusion Preparation Screening of donated blood units to ensure compatibility with the recipient's blood type before a transfusion.
  • Antibody Identification Identification of antibodies in the donated blood that may react with the recipient's blood type.
  • Emergency Situations Situations where rapid blood typing is necessary, particularly when there is insufficient time for a comprehensive antibody test.

2. Procedure

The procedure for blood typing and antigen screening as described by CPT® Code 86903 involves several key steps:

  • Step 1: Collection of Blood Sample A blood sample is collected from the donor, which will be screened for compatibility with potential recipients. This sample is essential for the subsequent testing process.
  • Step 2: Preparation of Reagent Serum Reagent serum is prepared, which contains known antibodies that will react with specific antigens present on the surface of red blood cells. This preparation is crucial for accurately identifying any incompatibilities.
  • Step 3: Screening Process The blood sample is mixed with the reagent serum. The mixture is then observed for any agglutination, which indicates a reaction between the antibodies in the serum and the antigens on the red blood cells. This step is vital for determining whether the blood unit is compatible with the recipient.
  • Step 4: Interpretation of Results The results of the screening are interpreted by qualified personnel. If agglutination occurs, it suggests that the blood unit is not compatible with the recipient's blood type, and alternative units must be considered.

3. Post-Procedure

After the screening procedure is completed, the results are documented and communicated to the healthcare team responsible for the transfusion. If the blood unit is deemed compatible, it can be prepared for transfusion. In cases where incompatibility is identified, further testing may be required to find an appropriate blood unit. It is essential to monitor the recipient for any adverse reactions during and after the transfusion process, ensuring patient safety and effective care.

Short Descr BLOOD TYPING, ANTIGEN SCREEN
Medium Descr BLD TYPING AG SCR UNIT RGNT SERUM SCR
Long Descr Blood typing; antigen screening for compatible blood unit using reagent serum, per unit screened
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
APC Status Indicator Ancillary Services
Type of Service (TOS) 5 - Diagnostic Laboratory
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) none
MUE Not applicable/unspecified.
CCS Clinical Classification 235 - Other Laboratory
Date
Action
Notes
2011-01-01 Deleted Code deleted, see 86902.
1993-01-01 Added Code added.
Code
Description
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