How To Use CPT Code 87076

CPT 87076 describes the additional tests performed by a lab analyst on a presumptively identified anaerobic isolate to definitively identify the organism. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 87076?

CPT 87076 can be used to describe the additional tests performed by a lab analyst on a presumptively identified anaerobic isolate to definitively identify the organism. These tests go beyond the initial limited tests used for presumptive identification and may include methods such as biochemical panels or slide cultures. The results of these tests allow the lab analyst to definitively identify the organism, often to the genus and species level.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 87076 is: ‘Culture, bacterial; anaerobic isolate, additional methods required for definitive identification, each isolate.’

3. Procedure

1. Following the initial culture and isolation of anaerobic organisms, the lab analyst performs additional tests on a presumptively identified anaerobic isolate.
2. These additional tests are more specific and different from the initial tests used for presumptive identification.
3. The lab analyst may use methods such as biochemical panels or slide cultures to definitively identify the organism, often to the genus and species level.
4. The results of these tests provide a more accurate and specific identification of the anaerobic isolate.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 87076 is used when a lab analyst performs additional tests on a presumptively identified anaerobic isolate to definitively identify the organism. This code is typically used for specimens from deep tissue or internal body sites to aid in the diagnosis of infection with anaerobic bacteria.

5. When to use CPT code 87076

CPT code 87076 should be used when additional tests are performed on a presumptively identified anaerobic isolate to definitively identify the organism. It is important to note that this code should not be used for tests involving molecular techniques, chromatography, or immunologic methods. In such cases, more specific culture typing codes should be used.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 87076, the documentation should include:

• Information about the initial culture and isolation of anaerobic organisms
• Details of the presumptive identification of the anaerobic isolate
• Description of the additional tests performed for definitive identification
• Results of the additional tests, including the specific identification of the organism
• Signature of the lab analyst performing the tests

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 87076, ensure that the additional tests for definitive identification of the anaerobic isolate have been performed. It is important to note that this code should be reported in addition to the code for the initial presumptive identification (CPT 87075). If the additional tests involve molecular techniques, chromatography, or immunologic methods, a more specific culture typing code should be used instead.

8. Historical information

CPT 87076 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A lab analyst performs additional tests on a presumptively identified anaerobic isolate from a deep tissue specimen to definitively identify the organism.
2. Following the initial culture and isolation of anaerobic organisms from an internal body site, the lab analyst performs additional tests on a presumptively identified anaerobic isolate to determine the genus and species of the organism.
3. For a patient with a suspected anaerobic bacterial infection, the lab analyst performs additional tests on a presumptively identified anaerobic isolate to obtain a more accurate identification of the organism.
4. After isolating an anaerobic organism from an initial culture procedure, the lab analyst performs additional tests to definitively identify the organism, providing crucial information for the diagnosis and treatment of the patient.
5. Following the isolation of an anaerobic organism from a deep tissue specimen, the lab analyst performs additional tests to definitively identify the organism, aiding in the understanding of the infection and guiding appropriate treatment.
6. A lab analyst performs additional tests on a presumptively identified anaerobic isolate from an internal body site to obtain a more specific identification of the organism, helping to determine the appropriate antimicrobial therapy.
7. After the initial presumptive identification of an anaerobic isolate, the lab analyst performs additional tests to definitively identify the organism, providing valuable information for the management of the patient’s infection.
8. For a patient with a suspected anaerobic bacterial infection, the lab analyst performs additional tests on a presumptively identified anaerobic isolate to accurately identify the organism, contributing to the diagnosis and treatment of the patient.
9. Following the isolation of an anaerobic organism from a deep tissue specimen, the lab analyst performs additional tests to definitively identify the organism, enabling targeted therapy and improved patient outcomes.
10. A lab analyst performs additional tests on a presumptively identified anaerobic isolate from an internal body site to obtain a more precise identification of the organism, assisting in the management of the patient’s infection.