84181 Western blot test
Also known as: western blot, protein detection, antibody detection
Western blot technique for protein detection and identification using antibody-based separation and recognition.
In Plain Language
specialized protein identification test
Clinical Context
Confirmatory test for various conditions; common uses include HIV confirmation, prion disease diagnosis, and protein expression analysis.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 0.37 |
| Total RVU | 0.37 |
Est. Medicare Payment
National estimate based on 2026 CMS PFS Conversion Factor ($33.40). Actual payment varies by locality (GPCI adjustment).
Billing & Documentation
Lab and pathology codes require an order from the treating provider with clinical indication. For molecular pathology and genetic testing, document the specific analytes tested and clinical rationale.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 0.37, this code ranks in the 29th percentile among Pathology & Lab codes — 1.8x below the median (0.68). The highest wRVU in this category is 2.78.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 84181?
CPT 84181 (Western blot test) is a Pathology & Lab code. Western blot technique for protein detection and identification using antibody-based separation and recognition.
Who uses CPT code 84181?
CPT 84181 is used by Molecular Pathology, Immunology, Laboratory Medicine. Confirmatory test for various conditions; common uses include HIV confirmation, prion disease diagnosis, and protein expression analysis.
When is CPT 84181 used?
Confirmatory test for various conditions; common uses include HIV confirmation, prion disease diagnosis, and protein expression analysis.
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CPT® is a registered trademark of the American Medical Association. Data sourced from CMS Physician Fee Schedule RVU26A. Descriptions, synonyms, and clinical context are original content by RVU Edge.