CPT® Code 86904

Blood typing, serologic, is a critical laboratory procedure that involves the screening of donated blood units to ensure compatibility with a recipient's blood type before a transfusion. This process is essential to prevent adverse reactions that can occur if incompatible blood is transfused. The procedure specifically focuses on identifying the antibodies present in the donated blood, which can interact negatively with the recipient's immune system. In situations where time is of the essence, such as emergencies, a serum test may be performed instead of a more comprehensive antibody test. The CPT® Code 86904 is designated for this specific serologic blood typing procedure, indicating that it is performed per unit of blood screened. This ensures that each unit of blood is evaluated for compatibility, thereby enhancing patient safety during transfusions.