How To Use CPT Code 87808

CPT code 87808 describes the process of detecting the presence of Trichomonas vaginalis, a protozoan parasite, through immunoassay with direct optical observation. 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 87808?

CPT 87808 can be used to identify the presence of Trichomonas vaginalis, a protozoan parasite, through immunoassay with direct optical observation. This code is utilized when a lab analyst performs the technical steps to analyze a specimen for the presence of Trichomonas vaginalis using an antibody-antigen reaction and visual observation.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 87808 is: ‘Infectious agent antigen detection by immunoassay with direct optical (i.e., visual) observation; Trichomonas vaginalis.’

3. Procedure

1. The lab analyst receives a specimen, typically a swab from the vagina or penis, and mixes it with a liquid reagent containing an antibody to Trichomonas vaginalis.
2. The analyst allows a specific time interval for the antibody-antigen reaction to occur.
3. The mixture is then dispensed onto a card that provides a visual result, such as a color change or a line, indicating a positive presence of Trichomonas vaginalis.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 87808 is ordered by clinicians when there is a suspicion of a sexually transmitted disease, malodorous discharge from the genital tract, or as a confirmation if the analyst observes the suspected parasite as a contaminant in the urine. The test can be performed on specimens from any source.

5. When to use CPT code 87808

CPT code 87808 should be used when there is a need to detect the presence of Trichomonas vaginalis through immunoassay with direct optical observation. It is important to note that this code is specific to Trichomonas vaginalis and should not be used for other infectious agents or antigens.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 87808, the documentation should include:

• Reason for ordering the test, such as suspicion of a sexually transmitted disease or presence of malodorous discharge
• Source of the specimen
• Details of the immunoassay procedure performed
• Visual observation results, including any color changes or lines indicating the presence of Trichomonas vaginalis

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 87808, ensure that the test is performed by a lab analyst using immunoassay with direct optical observation for the detection of Trichomonas vaginalis. It is important to note that some payers may separately reimburse for specimen collection using a different code, such as 36415 for venous blood collection.

8. Historical information

CPT 87808 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2007. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A lab analyst performs an immunoassay with direct optical observation to detect the presence of Trichomonas vaginalis in a vaginal swab specimen.
2. A clinician orders CPT 87808 when a patient presents with malodorous discharge from the genital tract, suspecting a Trichomonas vaginalis infection.
3. An analyst confirms the presence of Trichomonas vaginalis in a urine sample through immunoassay with direct optical observation.
4. CPT 87808 is utilized to detect Trichomonas vaginalis in a penile swab specimen, as part of a comprehensive sexually transmitted disease screening.
5. A lab analyst performs an immunoassay with direct optical observation on a vaginal swab specimen, observing a color change indicating the presence of Trichomonas vaginalis.
6. CPT 87808 is ordered to confirm the presence of Trichomonas vaginalis in a urine sample, as the analyst suspects contamination.
7. An analyst performs an immunoassay with direct optical observation on a vaginal swab specimen, observing a line indicating the presence of Trichomonas vaginalis.
8. CPT 87808 is utilized to detect Trichomonas vaginalis in a penile swab specimen, as part of a routine screening for sexually transmitted infections.
9. A clinician orders CPT 87808 when a patient presents with symptoms of a Trichomonas vaginalis infection, such as itching and discomfort.
10. An analyst performs an immunoassay with direct optical observation on a vaginal swab specimen, confirming the presence of Trichomonas vaginalis based on visual results.