86256 Fluorescent antibody titer
Also known as: Fluorescent antibody titer, FA titer
Fluorescent antibody titer test quantitatively measures the level of antibodies using immunofluorescence microscopy, determining antibody concentration and disease severity.
In Plain Language
Antibody strength measurement; Fluorescent antibody level
Clinical Context
Quantifies antibody levels detected by fluorescent antibody methodology. Higher titers may indicate recent infection or active immune response.
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 86256?
CPT 86256 (Fluorescent antibody titer) is a Pathology & Lab code. Fluorescent antibody titer test quantitatively measures the level of antibodies using immunofluorescence microscopy, determining antibody concentration and disease severity.
Who uses CPT code 86256?
CPT 86256 is used by Microbiology, Immunology, Clinical Pathology. Quantifies antibody levels detected by fluorescent antibody methodology. Higher titers may indicate recent infection or active immune response.
When is CPT 86256 used?
Quantifies antibody levels detected by fluorescent antibody methodology. Higher titers may indicate recent infection or active immune response.
Track This Code in RVU Edge
Log procedures, calculate wRVUs, and benchmark against national data — all in one app.
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.