Infectious agent antigen detection by immunoassay technique, (eg, enzyme immunoassay [EIA], enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay [ELISA], immunochemiluminometric assay [IMCA]) qualitative or semiquantitative, multiple-step method; severe acute respiratory sy
CPT4 code
Name of the Procedure:
Common Name: Infectious Agent Antigen Detection
Technical Terms: Immunoassay Technique, Enzyme Immunoassay (EIA), Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA), Immunochemiluminometric Assay (IMCA)
Summary
This procedure involves detecting the presence of specific infectious agents in a patient's body using advanced immunoassay techniques. It helps identify infectious diseases like severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) by analyzing patient samples for antigens related to the pathogen.
Purpose
Medical Condition: Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) Goals: To diagnose the presence of SARS-related pathogens accurately, enabling appropriate treatment and management of the disease.
Indications
- Symptoms such as high fever, cough, breathing difficulties, and other respiratory issues.
- Close contact with confirmed SARS cases or travel history to SARS-affected areas.
- Health surveillance in outbreak situations.
Preparation
- Patients may need to fast for a certain period before the procedure.
- Specific instructions regarding medication intake may be provided.
- Sometimes, preliminary diagnostic tests such as blood work or imaging might be needed.
Procedure Description
- Sample Collection: A sample (e.g., blood, sputum, or nasal swab) is collected from the patient.
- Preparation: The sample is prepared and treated to separate the relevant antigens.
- Application: The prepared sample is applied to a test system containing antibodies designed to bind specific antigens.
- Detection: The system uses enzymes or chemiluminescence to produce a detectable signal if antigens are present.
- Result Analysis: The results are analyzed qualitatively or semi-quantitatively to determine antigen presence.
Tools and Technology: Enzyme-linked substrates, antigen-specific antibodies, detection reagents. Anesthesia: Not applicable.
Duration
Typically completed within a few hours, though this can vary depending on the sample type and testing facility.
Setting
Performed in specialized laboratories within hospitals or diagnostic centers.
Personnel
- Laboratory Technicians
- Immunologists
- Pathologists
Risks and Complications
- Minimal risk associated with sample collection (e.g., slight discomfort or minor bleeding).
- Rarely, incorrect sample handling could lead to inaccurate results.
Benefits
- Rapid and accurate diagnosis of SARS.
- Early detection allows timely and appropriate treatment, reducing disease spread.
- Insights into the patient's immune response to the infectious agent.
Recovery
- Post-sample collection care is minimal (e.g., applying pressure on the collection site).
- Most patients can resume normal activities immediately.
- Follow-up appointments as necessary based on results.
Alternatives
- Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR): High accuracy but more complex and time-consuming.
- Clinical Diagnosis: Based on symptoms and imaging but less specific.
- Culture Methods: Often used but slower and requires specialized facilities.
Patient Experience
- Sample collection might cause minor discomfort.
- Generally, the procedure is quick with minimal physical impact.
- Any pain or discomfort is manageable and resolves quickly.