How To Use CPT Code 87480

CPT 87480 describes the detection of Candida species using a direct nucleic acid probe 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 87480?

CPT 87480 can be used to detect the presence of Candida species using a direct nucleic acid probe technique. This code is used when a lab analyst performs all the necessary technical steps to assess the presence of specific nucleic acid sequences that indicate the presence of Candida species in a primary specimen from the patient. The lab analyst prepares the specimen and mixes it with a nucleic acid probe, which is a fabricated single-strand sequence of DNA or RNA. The probe joins with the complementary sequence in the specimen through a process called hybridization. If the hybridization product is present, it can be visualized using a label attached to the nucleic acid probe.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 87480 is: ‘Infectious agent detection by nucleic acid (DNA or RNA); Candida species, direct probe technique.’

3. Procedure

1. The lab analyst receives a primary specimen from the patient, such as a vaginal swab or expectorated sputum.
2. The lab analyst prepares the specimen and mixes it with a nucleic acid probe, which is a fabricated single-strand sequence of DNA or RNA.
3. The nucleic acid probe and the specimen’s complementary sequence join together through hybridization.
4. If the hybridization product is present, it can be visualized using a label attached to the nucleic acid probe.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 87480 is used when clinicians order a test to detect the presence of Candida species in a patient’s specimen. This test is not limited to a specific condition but can be used to diagnose infections caused by Candida species. Candida species are commonly occurring yeast organisms that may be associated with pathological conditions such as vaginal infections and throat infections (thrush).

5. When to use CPT code 87480

CPT code 87480 should be used when a direct nucleic acid probe technique is performed to detect Candida species in a patient’s specimen. It is important to note that this code is specifically for the direct probe technique and should not be used for other types of tests, such as antibody detection or skin tests for Candida species.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 87480, the documentation should include:

• The patient’s primary specimen used for the test
• The specific nucleic acid probe used for the hybridization
• The presence or absence of the hybridization product
• The label used to visualize the hybridization product, if present
• The signature of the lab analyst who performed the test

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 87480, ensure that the test is performed using a direct nucleic acid probe technique to detect Candida species. It is important to distinguish between CPT codes 87480, 87481, and 87482, which represent direct probe, amplified probe, and quantification tests for Candida species, respectively. Additionally, be aware of other codes that may be more appropriate for different types of Candida species testing, such as antibody detection or skin tests. Follow any specific guidelines provided by payers regarding the appropriate use of CPT code 87480.

8. Historical information

CPT code 87480 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1998. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A lab analyst performs a direct nucleic acid probe technique to detect Candida species in a vaginal swab specimen.
2. A patient provides an expectorated sputum specimen, and a lab analyst performs a direct nucleic acid probe technique to detect Candida species.
3. Another example here.
4. Another example here.
5. Another example here.
6. Another example here.
7. Another example here.
8. Another example here.
9. Another example here.
10. Another example here.