How To Use CPT Code 87177

CPT 87177 describes the examination, homogenization, and concentration procedures performed by a lab analyst to identify parasites and parasite eggs, also known as ova, in specimens such as stool. This article will cover the description, official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 87177?

CPT 87177 can be used to describe the examination, homogenization, and concentration procedures performed by a lab analyst to identify parasites and parasite eggs in specimens such as stool. This code is used when the lab analyst prepares and concentrates the specimen for microscopic examination to seek and identify parasites and parasite ova.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 87177 is: ‘Ova and parasites, direct smears, concentration and identification.’

3. Procedure

1. The lab analyst receives the specimen, such as stool, for examination.
2. The lab analyst performs the technical steps to concentrate and evaluate the specimen to identify parasites and parasite eggs.
3. If necessary, the lab analyst may perform additional tests, such as a trichrome stain, to aid in the identification of parasites.
4. The lab analyst prepares a report with the findings of the examination and identification.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 87177 is used when there is a need to identify parasites and parasite eggs in specimens such as stool. Clinicians may order this test to aid in the diagnosis of infection with parasitic protozoa and the eggs and larvae of parasitic worms. The test is performed by a lab analyst who specializes in examining and identifying parasites.

5. When to use CPT code 87177

CPT code 87177 should be used when there is a need to examine and identify parasites and parasite eggs in specimens such as stool. It should not be used in conjunction with CPT code 87015. If the lab analyst performs a more specific direct smear test for certain fecal parasites, a different CPT code, such as 87207, should be used.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 87177, the lab analyst must document the following information:

• Details of the specimen received for examination
• Steps performed to concentrate and evaluate the specimen
• Findings of the examination and identification
• Any additional tests performed, such as a trichrome stain
• Signature of the lab analyst performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 87177, ensure that the procedure is performed by a lab analyst specializing in examining and identifying parasites. It should not be reported with CPT code 87015. If additional tests, such as a trichrome stain, are performed, they can be separately billed using CPT code 87209.

8. Historical information

CPT 87177 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 performing the examination, homogenization, and concentration procedures to identify parasites and parasite eggs in a stool specimen.
2. A lab analyst preparing and concentrating a specimen for microscopic examination to seek and identify parasites in a patient with suspected parasitic infection.
3. A lab analyst performing the technical steps to evaluate a stool specimen and identify parasite ova.
4. A lab analyst performing a trichrome stain in addition to the examination and identification of parasites in a stool specimen.
5. A lab analyst preparing a report with the findings of the examination and identification of parasites in a specimen.
6. A lab analyst specializing in examining and identifying parasites performing the necessary procedures to identify parasite ova in a stool specimen.
7. A lab analyst performing the examination, homogenization, and concentration procedures to identify parasites and parasite eggs in a specimen from a patient with suspected parasitic infection.
8. A lab analyst preparing and concentrating a specimen for microscopic examination to seek and identify parasites in a patient with symptoms suggestive of parasitic infection.
9. A lab analyst performing the technical steps to evaluate a stool specimen and identify parasite ova in a patient with gastrointestinal symptoms.
10. A lab analyst performing a trichrome stain in addition to the examination and identification of parasites in a stool specimen from a patient with suspected parasitic infection.