Basics of CPT code 86318, 86328 & 86769

CPT code 86328 was established as a child code to 86318 to report a qualitative or semiquantitative single-step method immunoassay for SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) antibody(ies). CPT code 86769 was established to report an antibody test for SARS-CoV-2 (Coronavirus disease [COVID-19]) using a multiple-step method. Note that code 86769 will be a child code under parent code 86710.

These codes are effective immediately for use in reporting these laboratory tests. Note that the revised code 86318, two new codes 86328 and 86769, new parenthetical notes and revised guideline are not included in the CPT 2020 code set; however, they will be included in the CPT 2021 code set in the Immunology subsection of the Pathology and Laboratory section.

Already we learnt previously the ICD 10 codes list for COVID 19 or coronavirus cases and also the use of CPT code 87635 for COVID 19 procedures.

Read also: Coding examples for COVID 19 cases for ICD 10 coders

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Description of CPT code 86318, 86328 & 86769

86318 Immunoassay for infectious agent antibody(ies), qualitative or semiquantitative, single step method (eg, reagent strip);

This code may be requested as a single step qualitative or semi-quantitative immunoassay to identify the presence of specific infectious agent antibodies. Specimen is serum. Method is immunoassay. Single step methods frequently use a reagent strip for the specific antibody.

86328 severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) (Coronavirus disease [COVID-19])

This code should be reported for immunoassay antibody testing for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 using a single-step method such as a reagent strip. The test may be requested as single-step qualitative or semi-quantitative; infectious agent specificity may also include terminology such as SARS-CoV-2, coronavirus disease, or COVID-19. In one method, a reagent strip, pre-coated with appropriate IgM and IgG antibodies, is taken from its sealed container following collection of blood or serum from the patient. The sample is placed in the specimen well and diluent is added. Once the specimen and reagents react with the strip’s test area, the specimen is read and results are interpreted and reported.

86769 Antibody; severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) (Coronavirus disease [COVID-19])

This code should be reported for testing to identify the presence of antibodies to the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Infectious agent specificity may also include terminology such as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, coronavirus disease, or COVID-19. In one method, following dilution in buffer of the plasma or serum sample, a measured portion of the diluted sample and controls are added to a sample plate. After incubation and washing, appropriate IgG and IgM antibodies are added and incubated. It is combined with a substrate, incubated, and read immediately.

References:

https://www.ama-assn.org/system/files/2020-04/cpt-assistant-guide-coronavirus-april-2020.pdf