2025 CPT code 86021
Effective Date: N/A Pathology and Laboratory Procedures > Immunology Procedures Feed
Antibody identification; leukocyte antibodies
Modifiers may be applicable. Modifier 90 indicates the test was performed by an outside laboratory. Modifier 91 indicates a repeat test. Modifier 99 is used for multiple modifiers.
Medical necessity for LAD testing is determined by the patient's clinical presentation and the suspected role of leukocyte antibodies in the underlying condition.For infertility, recurrent miscarriage, or IVF failure, the test may be indicated to investigate immunological factors. In the case of a transfusion reaction, LAD helps to confirm the presence of antibodies against donor leukocytes.
The lab analyst performs all technical steps to detect antibodies to leukocytes in a blood specimen. This involves receiving the sample, processing it through appropriate immunoassays such as flow cytometry, analyzing the results and providing a report for the clinician.
In simple words: This test identifies antibodies against your white blood cells. It's often used in fertility clinics to check for issues that may cause infertility.The test uses a blood sample to look for these antibodies and determine their levels. If the levels are too low, it could indicate a higher risk of infertility.
The lab analyst performs the technical lab test to analyze for the presence of and identify leukocyte antibodies.Leukocyte antibody detection (LAD) is a blood test that fertility clinics perform frequently. A specialized lab receives the blood sample and may analyze the blood using any immunoassay. One common method of assessment includes using a pool of single antigen coated microbeads containing a variety of leukocyte antibodies to assess for panel reactive antibodies (PRAs) in flow cytometry-based assays.
Example 1: A 35-year-old woman experiencing infertility undergoes LAD testing to assess her leukocyte antibody levels as part of her fertility workup., A patient receiving a blood transfusion experiences an adverse reaction. LAD testing is performed to detect any leukocyte antibodies that may be contributing to the reaction., A couple undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) has the woman tested for LAD to determine the potential impact of leukocyte antibodies on embryo implantation and pregnancy success.
The documentation should include the patient's medical history, reason for testing (e.g., infertility evaluation, transfusion reaction), date and time of specimen collection, and the specific methodology used for analysis.
- Revenue Code: T1H - LAB TESTS - OTHER (NON-MEDICARE FEE SCHEDULE)
- Specialties:Immunology, Reproductive Endocrinology/Infertility, Hematology/Oncology (in the context of transfusion reactions)
- Place of Service:Independent Laboratory, Office