How To Use CPT Code 87905

CPT 87905 describes the analysis of enzymatic activity caused by an infectious agent other than a virus. 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 87905?

CPT 87905 can be used to analyze the enzymatic activity of an infectious agent, excluding viruses. This code is used when a lab analyst performs the technical steps to detect the presence of enzymatic activity in a specimen caused by an infectious agent other than a virus. The test helps identify the presence of certain bacteria by detecting the activity of specific enzymes they produce.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 87905 is: ‘Infectious agent enzymatic activity other than virus (eg, sialidase activity in vaginal fluid).’ This code is used to analyze the enzymatic activity caused by an infectious agent other than a virus in a specimen.

3. Procedure

1. The lab analyst performs all technical steps to detect the presence of enzymatic activity in a specimen caused by an infectious agent other than a virus.
2. The analyst selects the appropriate specimen based on the specific enzyme they are looking for. For example, sialidase activity in vaginal fluid may indicate bacterial vaginosis.
3. The analyst performs the necessary tests to determine the presence and activity of the specific enzyme.
4. If the enzymatic activity is detected, it indicates the presence of the infectious agent causing the activity.
5. The results are documented and reported to the healthcare provider for further diagnosis and treatment.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 87905 is used when there is a suspected infection caused by an infectious agent other than a virus. For example, it may be ordered when a patient presents with symptoms of bacterial vaginosis, such as a malodorous discharge from the vagina. The test helps confirm the presence of bacterial activity in the vaginal fluid, indicating the infection.

5. When to use CPT code 87905

CPT code 87905 should be used when there is a need to analyze the enzymatic activity of an infectious agent other than a virus in a specimen. It is appropriate to use this code when there is a suspected infection caused by bacteria or other microorganisms that produce specific enzymes. However, it should not be used for virus isolation or identification, as there are separate codes for those purposes.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 87905, the documentation should include:

• Reason for ordering the test, such as suspected bacterial infection
• Specific enzyme being analyzed
• Type of specimen used for the analysis
• Date and time of the analysis
• Results of the enzymatic activity test
• Signature of the lab analyst performing the analysis

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 87905, ensure that the analysis is performed by a qualified lab analyst. It is important to follow the specific guidelines provided by the payer regarding the documentation and reporting of the test results. Additionally, consider any additional codes that may be required for specimen collection or other related services.

8. Historical information

CPT 87905 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2009. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A lab analyst performs the analysis of sialidase activity in vaginal fluid to confirm the presence of bacterial vaginosis.
2. An enzymatic activity test is conducted on a urine sample to detect the presence of esterase activity, indicating a possible urinary tract infection.
3. The lab analyst analyzes the phosphatase activity in a urine specimen to identify the presence of a specific bacterial infection.
4. An oxidase activity test is performed on a sample to determine the presence of certain bacteria causing an infection.
5. The lab analyst detects catalase activity in a urine sample, indicating the presence of a specific bacterial infection.