Cold Agglutinin : 1000236

Test Code

COLDS or 1000236

Alias/See Also

Cold Agglutinin

CPT Codes
86156

Includes

If screen is positive, a titer will be performed at an additional charge (CPT code(s): 86157).

Instructions

Plain red top tube.

Transport Container

Do not refrigerate clot before centrifuging and removing serum from cells. Aliquot serum (Min. 3 mL) into a standard transport tube. Serum aliquot can be refrigerated.

Transport Temperature

Refrigerated.

Specimen Stability

Note: stability is applicable only after serum has been aliquoted.
After separation from cells: Ambient: 48 hours; Refrigerated: 2 weeks ; Frozen: Acceptable for longer storage

Methodology
Hemagglutination

Setup Schedule

Tuesday & Thursday & Saturday

Report Available

2-4 days

Reference Range

<1:64
Note:
Screened at 1:4

Clinical Significance

Cold agglutinin disease is a type of autoimmune hemolytic anemia. The autoantibodies, cold agglutinins, are activated by cold temperatures and react by causing a clumping of the red blood cells to which they are attached. The temperature at which the agglutination takes place varies from patient to patient. The antibodies are usually of the IgM variety and combine with complement to cause red blood cells to lyse. Cold agglutinin disease can be caused by an underlying infectious disease such as Mycoplasma pneumonia, lymphoproliferative disease, or connective tissue disease.

Performing Laboratory
med fusion

The CPT Codes provided in this document are based on AMA guidelines and are for informational purposes only. CPT coding is the sole responsibility of the billing party. Please direct any questions regarding coding to the payor being billed. Any Profile/panel component may be ordered separately. Reflex tests are performed at an additional charge.