How To Use CPT Code 87255

CPT 87255 describes the process of identifying a virus using non-immunologic methods, specifically by observing the impact of the virus on cells through enzymatic activity. 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 87255?

CPT 87255 can be used to describe the laboratory procedure of identifying a specific virus using non-immunologic methods. This involves observing the effects of the virus on cells through enzymatic activity, rather than relying on cytopathic effect or immunoassays. An example of this would be using an enzyme assay to identify certain Herpes simplex viruses based on their Thymidine kinase activity.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 87255 is: ‘Virus isolation; including identification by non-immunologic method, other than by cytopathic effect (eg, virus specific enzymatic activity)’

3. Procedure

1. The lab analyst performs a test to identify a specific virus based on characteristics other than cytopathic effect or immunoassays.
2. This may involve observing the enzymatic activity of the virus or other non-immunologic methods.
3. The test is performed by analyzing the impact of the virus on cells and identifying any specific enzymatic activity associated with the virus.
4. The lab analyst records the results of the test and identifies the specific virus based on the observed enzymatic activity.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 87255 is typically ordered by clinicians when they need to identify a specific virus that may demonstrate a particular trait, such as enzyme activity. This test can be used for various viruses and is not limited to a specific condition. The lab analyst performing the test must have the necessary expertise to accurately identify the virus based on non-immunologic methods.

5. When to use CPT code 87255

CPT code 87255 should be used when a clinician needs to identify a virus using non-immunologic methods, specifically by observing the enzymatic activity of the virus. This code should not be used when the identification is based on cytopathic effect or immunoassays. It is important to ensure that the test performed aligns with the specific requirements of CPT code 87255.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 87255, the documentation should include:

• The specific virus being identified
• The non-immunologic method used for identification, such as enzymatic activity
• The date and time of the test
• The results of the test and the specific enzymatic activity observed
• Signature of the lab analyst performing the test

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 87255, it is important to ensure that the test performed aligns with the specific requirements of the code. This code should not be reported with CPT code 87253 for the same specimen, as they represent virus identification using different methodologies. It is crucial to follow the guidelines provided by the payer and accurately report the services rendered.

8. Historical information

CPT 87255 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2003. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A lab analyst performing a test to identify a specific virus based on its enzymatic activity.
2. Using CPT code 87255 to identify a virus using non-immunologic methods, such as observing the impact of the virus on cells.
3. Performing an enzyme assay to identify a Herpes simplex virus based on its Thymidine kinase activity.
4. Using CPT 87255 to identify a virus that demonstrates specific enzymatic activity, aiding in determining appropriate treatment protocols.
5. Performing a test to identify a virus using non-immunologic methods, such as analyzing its enzymatic activity.
6. Using CPT code 87255 to accurately identify a specific virus based on non-immunologic characteristics.
7. A lab analyst recording the results of a test and identifying the specific virus based on observed enzymatic activity.
8. Performing a virus identification test based on enzymatic activity, using CPT code 87255.
9. Using non-immunologic methods, such as observing enzymatic activity, to identify a specific virus.
10. Performing a test to identify a virus by analyzing its impact on cells and identifying any specific enzymatic activity associated with the virus.