Infectious agent antigen detection by immunoassay technique, (eg, enzyme immunoassay [EIA], enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay [ELISA], immunochemiluminometric assay [IMCA]), qualitative or semiquantitative; single-step method, not otherwise specified, eac
CPT4 code
Name of the Procedure:
Infectious Agent Antigen Detection by Immunoassay Techniques
- Common Names: EIA, ELISA, IMCA
- Technical Term: Immunoassay for Antigen Detection, Single-Step Method
Summary
This procedure involves detecting specific antigens from infectious agents in a patient's sample using immunoassay techniques such as EIA (Enzyme Immunoassay), ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay), or IMCA (Immunochemiluminometric Assay). It's designed to identify the presence of an infectious agent qualitatively or semi-quantitatively.
Purpose
Primary Goal: To diagnose infections by identifying antigens from infectious agents in the patient's sample. Expected Outcomes: Accurate determination of the presence of antigens, aiding in diagnosis and treatment planning.
Indications
- Unexplained fever or signs of infection
- Symptoms suggestive of infectious diseases (e.g., respiratory infections, gastroenteritis)
- Monitoring the presence of specific pathogens in at-risk populations
Preparation
- No special preparation is generally required.
- Patients may need to provide a blood, urine, or other types of samples.
- Inform your healthcare provider about any medications currently being taken as some may affect results.
Procedure Description
- Sample Collection:
- Blood, urine, or other relevant samples are collected from the patient.
- Sample Processing:
- Samples are prepared and processed for the immunoassay.
- Immunoassay Technique:
- Reagents are added to the sample, allowing antibodies to bind to the target antigens.
- Enzyme or chemiluminescent markers produce signals indicating the presence of antigens.
- Detection:
- Results are read by interpreting the intensity of the signal, indicative of antigen presence.
Duration
The procedure typically takes 1–2 hours, including sample preparation and processing time.
Setting
Performed in a laboratory setting or clinic specializing in diagnostic testing.
Personnel
- Medical Laboratory Technologists
- Pathologists or Lab Supervisors overseeing the process
Risks and Complications
- Minimal risk related to sample collection (e.g., slight pain or bruising from blood draw)
- Very low risk of false positives/negatives due to procedural errors
Benefits
- Rapid and accurate diagnosis of infectious diseases
- Helps in timely and appropriate treatment interventions
Recovery
- No recovery time needed as it's a non-invasive procedure.
- Follow any specific instructions given by the healthcare provider based on the results.
Alternatives
- Culture Tests: Longer processing time but highly specific.
- PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction): More sensitive and specific but usually more expensive.
Patient Experience
- Generally painless except for slight discomfort during sample collection.
- No significant pain or discomfort during the assay itself.
- Results and interpretation are typically provided within a few days, enabling prompt medical decisions.