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CPT 86860: RBC Elution, Immunohematology Laboratory
CPT code 86860 designates an RBC elution procedure performed by a laboratory analyst to remove and recover antibodies bound to a patient’s red blood cells. This immunohematology test is important nationally for identifying clinically significant alloantibodies or autoantibodies that affect transfusion compatibility and patient safety. Use of this code reflects specialized laboratory work typically performed in hospital blood banks and independent clinical laboratories.
Key payers in the analysis include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. The summary provides a national perspective on clinical context, billing considerations, and common payer coverage patterns.
Readers will learn the clinical purpose of the procedure, typical sites of service, common billing modifiers associated with laboratory services, and where to find related codes and documentation practices. The content also outlines which payers are commonly involved and highlights that some operational details or payor-specific rules may vary by contract. Data not available in the input is noted where applicable.
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Billing Code Overview
CPT code 86860 describes a laboratory procedure in which a lab analyst performs an RBC elution to remove antibodies bound to the patient’s red blood cells (RBCs). The process yields an eluate that can be tested to identify and characterize antibodies implicated in hemolytic transfusion reactions, autoimmune hemolytic anemia, or other clinically significant immunohematology concerns.
Service type: Immunohematology / Blood Bank Laboratory Procedure
Typical site of service: Hospital laboratory or independent clinical laboratory (blood bank/ transfusion service)