86850 Rbc antibody screening
Also known as: RBC antibody screen, Indirect antiglobulin screen, Antibody detection
Serologic screening to detect antibodies against red blood cell antigens. Initial antibody screen for transfusion or hemolytic disease evaluation.
In Plain Language
Blood antibody test; Transfusion safety test
Clinical Context
Performed prior to blood transfusion to detect unexpected red blood cell alloantibodies that could cause transfusion reactions. Also used in hemolytic disease of newborn evaluation.
RVU Information
CPT 86850 does not have a physician work RVU assigned by CMS. Reimbursement for this code is determined by payer-specific fee schedules.
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
This code has a work RVU of 0.00, meaning it does not have a physician work component assigned by CMS. In the Pathology & Lab category, 94% of codes share this characteristic.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 86850?
CPT 86850 (Rbc antibody screening) is a Pathology & Lab code. Serologic screening to detect antibodies against red blood cell antigens. Initial antibody screen for transfusion or hemolytic disease evaluation.
Who uses CPT code 86850?
CPT 86850 is used by Pathology, Transfusion Medicine, Hematology. Performed prior to blood transfusion to detect unexpected red blood cell alloantibodies that could cause transfusion reactions. Also used in hemolytic disease of newborn evaluation.
When is CPT 86850 used?
Performed prior to blood transfusion to detect unexpected red blood cell alloantibodies that could cause transfusion reactions. Also used in hemolytic disease of newborn evaluation.
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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.