How To Use CPT Code 86344

CPT 86344 describes the leukocyte phagocytosis test, which is used to evaluate the functioning of leukocytes, particularly neutrophils. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 86344?

CPT 86344 can be used to describe the leukocyte phagocytosis test, which assesses the ability of leukocytes, specifically neutrophils, to engulf bacteria and other foreign substances. This test is typically performed on a patient’s blood sample obtained through routine vein puncture.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 86344 is: ‘Leukocyte phagocytosis test, evaluation of neutrophil function.’

3. Procedure

1. The lab analyst collects a blood sample from the patient through routine vein puncture.
2. The lab analyst performs the leukocyte phagocytosis test, focusing on the activity of neutrophils and their ability to engulf bacteria.
3. The test sample is analyzed using a process such as flow cytometry, which detects phagocytosis by labeling foreign substances with a fluorescent substance.
4. A flow cytometer quantitates the proportion of neutrophils that have consumed the fluorescent tagged substances and the number of substances consumed by each cell.
5. The results of the test provide information about the patient’s leukocyte function and their ability to fight infections.

4. Qualifying circumstances

The leukocyte phagocytosis test is ordered by providers to assess the health and viability of the patient’s immune system. It is not limited to specific conditions but can be used to evaluate the functioning of leukocytes in general. The test focuses on neutrophils, which are the most active phagocytic leukocytes. A defect in phagocytosis can lead to increased susceptibility to infections. The test is typically performed on patients who may have compromised immune systems or suspected immune system disorders.

5. When to use CPT code 86344

CPT code 86344 should be used when a leukocyte phagocytosis test is performed to evaluate the functioning of neutrophils and their ability to engulf bacteria. This code is appropriate when the test is ordered to assess the patient’s immune system or to investigate potential immune system disorders. It is important to note that this code is specific to the evaluation of neutrophil function and should not be used for other types of leukocyte function tests.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 86344, the following documentation is required:

• Indication for the leukocyte phagocytosis test and the reason for performing the test
• Details of the test procedure, including the use of flow cytometry or other methods
• Date of the test and the patient’s identification
• Results of the test, including the proportion of neutrophils that have consumed the fluorescent tagged substances and the number of substances consumed by each cell
• Interpretation of the test results and any additional actions or follow-up required
• Signature of the healthcare professional performing or interpreting the test

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 86344, ensure that the leukocyte phagocytosis test is performed to evaluate neutrophil function. This code should not be reported for other types of leukocyte function tests. It is important to follow the specific guidelines provided by payers regarding documentation and medical necessity. Additionally, if there are any separate services related to specimen collection, such as venous blood collection, they should be reported separately using the appropriate codes.

8. Historical information

CPT code 86344 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A patient with recurrent infections undergoes a leukocyte phagocytosis test to evaluate the functioning of their neutrophils.
2. A healthcare provider orders a leukocyte phagocytosis test for a patient with suspected immune system dysfunction.
3. A patient with a history of autoimmune disorders undergoes a leukocyte phagocytosis test to assess their immune system function.
4. A child with frequent respiratory infections undergoes a leukocyte phagocytosis test to evaluate their neutrophil activity.
5. A patient with a suspected primary immunodeficiency disorder undergoes a leukocyte phagocytosis test to assess their immune system function.
6. A healthcare provider orders a leukocyte phagocytosis test for a patient with recurrent skin infections to evaluate their neutrophil function.
7. A patient with a history of recurrent bacterial infections undergoes a leukocyte phagocytosis test to assess their immune system function.
8. A healthcare provider orders a leukocyte phagocytosis test for a patient with suspected neutrophil dysfunction.
9. A patient with a compromised immune system undergoes a leukocyte phagocytosis test to evaluate their neutrophil activity.
10. A healthcare provider orders a leukocyte phagocytosis test for a patient with unexplained recurrent fevers to assess their immune system function.