CPT Code 87624 | Description & Clinical Information
CPT 87624 describes the utilization of nucleic acid detection by a lab analyst to identify the existence of high-risk types of human papillomavirus, such as types 16, 18, 31, 33, 35, 39, 45, 51, 52, 56, 58, 59, and 68.
Official Description
The CPT book defines CPT code 87624 as: “Infectious agent detection by nucleic acid (DNA or RNA); Human Papillomavirus (HPV), high-risk types (eg, 16, 18, 31, 33, 35, 39, 45, 51, 52, 56, 58, 59, 68)”.
Billing Guidelines
Use only CPT 87624 when conducting a single assay that includes both low-risk and high-risk HPV types.
Clinical Information
The procedure described by CPT code 87624 involves conducting nucleic acid detection of human papillomavirus. This is a laboratory test performed by skilled lab analysts who carry out technical steps to identify the virus through nucleic acid probes. These probes are designed to recognize specific DNA or RNA segments of a microorganism, in this case, human papillomavirus.
The process of nucleic acid quantitation is also carried out during this procedure. This refers to the measurement of the exact amount of a substance present, allowing for assessment of treatment response. Nucleic acid quantitation is an essential feature of the CPT code 87624 test.
The primary focus of this test is the detection of high-risk types of human papillomavirus. These include specific strains like types 16, 18, 31, 33, 35, 39, 45, 51, 52, 56, 58, 59, and 68. The lab analyst performs this procedure to detect these types of HPV, which are known to cause cervical cancer and other serious health conditions.
It is important to note that the CPT code 87624 procedure is not limited to testing for specific conditions. While the primary focus is on HPV detection, this test can identify other microorganisms as well. The test identifies the presence of HPV by detecting viral DNA or RNA in a sample collected from the patient.
The nucleic acid detection technique used in this procedure is highly accurate and reliable. It is the gold standard for HPV testing due to its sensitivity and specificity. The test is performed on a variety of sample types, including cervical swabs, vaginal swabs, anal swabs, male urethra swabs, oropharyngeal swabs, and more.
In conclusion, the CPT code 87624 procedure is a nucleic acid detection test used to identify high-risk types of human papillomavirus. It is a highly specific and sensitive test that provides accurate results. The procedure is performed by skilled lab analysts who conduct technical steps to identify the virus through nucleic acid probes. Nucleic acid quantitation is also performed during the process to assess treatment response. While the primary focus is on HPV detection, the procedure is not limited to testing for specific conditions. It is a vital tool in the early detection and prevention of cervical cancer and other HPV-related health conditions.
Return to all the CPT codes for infectious agent antigen detection.
