How To Use CPT Code 87273

CPT 87273 describes the detection of antigens for Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV 2) using immunofluorescent technique. 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 87273?

CPT 87273 can be used to detect antigens for Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV 2) using immunofluorescent technique. This code is used when a lab analyst performs all technical steps to assess the presence of specific HSV 2 antigens in a primary source specimen from the patient, such as a genital lesion swab. The lab method involves mixing fluorescent tagged antibodies directed against the HSV 2 antigens with the specimen and preparing slides to view with a fluorescence microscope. The lab analyst interprets the presence of HSV 2 infection based on the pattern of fluorescence staining on the test slides.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 87273 is: ‘Infectious agent antigen detection by immunofluorescent technique; Herpes simplex virus type 2.’

3. Procedure

1. The lab analyst receives a primary source specimen, such as a genital lesion swab, from the patient.
2. The lab analyst performs all technical steps to detect specific HSV 2 antigens using immunofluorescent technique.
3. This may include mixing fluorescent tagged antibodies directed against the HSV 2 antigens with the specimen.
4. The lab analyst prepares slides with the specimen and views them under a fluorescence microscope.
5. The lab analyst interprets the presence of HSV 2 infection based on the pattern of fluorescence staining on the test slides.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 87273 is used when there is a need to detect antigens for Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV 2) using immunofluorescent technique. This test may be ordered by clinicians to diagnose or rule out possible HSV 2 infection, which is a sexually transmitted infection that may cause genital herpes. The test is performed on a primary source specimen, such as a genital lesion swab, and is used to assess the presence of specific HSV 2 antigens.

5. When to use CPT code 87273

CPT code 87273 should be used when there is a need to detect antigens for Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV 2) using immunofluorescent technique. This code is appropriate when the lab analyst performs all technical steps to assess the presence of specific HSV 2 antigens in a primary source specimen, such as a genital lesion swab. It should not be used for testing culture isolates or for detecting HSV 2 antibodies.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 87273, the following documentation is required:

• Indication for the test, such as suspected HSV 2 infection
• Details of the primary source specimen used, such as a genital lesion swab
• Description of the immunofluorescent technique used
• Date and time of the test
• Interpretation of the test results
• Signature of the lab analyst performing the test

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 87273, ensure that the test is performed using immunofluorescent technique to detect antigens for Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV 2). This code should not be reported for testing culture isolates or for detecting HSV 2 antibodies. If the lab analyst performs this test for different species or strains of the organism, each test should be separately reported with modifier 59, Distinct procedural service.

8. Historical information

CPT code 87273 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2001. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A lab analyst performs CPT code 87273 to detect HSV 2 antigens in a primary source specimen from a patient with suspected genital herpes.
2. Using immunofluorescent technique, the lab analyst assesses the presence of specific HSV 2 antigens in a genital lesion swab using CPT code 87273.
3. CPT code 87273 is used to detect HSV 2 antigens in a primary source specimen, helping to diagnose or rule out HSV 2 infection in a patient.
4. A lab analyst interprets the presence of HSV 2 infection based on the pattern of fluorescence staining on test slides using CPT code 87273.
5. Using immunofluorescent technique, the lab analyst performs CPT code 87273 to detect HSV 2 antigens in a primary source specimen, providing valuable information for the diagnosis of genital herpes.
6. CPT code 87273 is used to assess the presence of specific HSV 2 antigens in a primary source specimen, aiding in the diagnosis of HSV 2 infection.
7. A lab analyst performs CPT code 87273 to detect HSV 2 antigens in a genital lesion swab, helping to confirm or rule out HSV 2 infection in a patient.
8. Using immunofluorescent technique, the lab analyst uses CPT code 87273 to assess the presence of specific HSV 2 antigens in a primary source specimen, contributing to the diagnosis of genital herpes.
9. CPT code 87273 is used to detect HSV 2 antigens in a primary source specimen, providing important information for the diagnosis and management of HSV 2 infection.