2025 CPT code 86485
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Immunology Procedures - Immunology Pathology and Laboratory Feed
Skin test; candida
Medical necessity for this test is determined by the patient's clinical condition and the need to assess their cell-mediated immunity.Conditions like HIV, certain cancers, or recurrent infections can justify the medical necessity of this test.
The healthcare provider injects the candida antigen under the patient's skin and evaluates the injection site for reaction 48 to 72 hours later.
In simple words: This is a skin test using a yeast extract to check how well your body's immune system is working.A small amount of yeast extract is injected under the skin, and the area is checked a few days later.A firm bump at the injection site usually means the immune system is working well.
This code represents a skin test using candida antigen to evaluate a patient's cell-mediated immune response (CMI). The procedure involves injecting a candida antigen under the skin and evaluating the reaction 48-72 hours later. A normal induration (hard, raised area) of 5mm or greater indicates an adequate CMI. This test is often used to assess CMI in patients with HIV or certain cancers.
Example 1: A patient with HIV is tested to assess their cellular immunity., A patient recently diagnosed with lymphoma undergoes the candida skin test to aid in prognosis., A patient with recurrent infections receives the candida skin test to evaluate their overall immune function.
Documentation should include the date and time of the injection, the measurement of the induration at 48-72 hours, and any relevant patient history or symptoms.
- Revenue Code: T1H - LAB TESTS - OTHER (NON-MEDICARE FEE SCHEDULE)
- Place of Service:Office, Outpatient Hospital