CPT® Code 87102

The CPT® Code 87102 refers to a laboratory procedure specifically designed for the culture and isolation of fungi, which can include both mold and yeast, from various body sources excluding blood. This procedure is essential for diagnosing fungal infections and managing conditions that may be acute, chronic, or recurring. The test involves collecting samples from different body areas such as skin, hair, nails, and other fluids, which are then cultured on agar plates to promote the growth of any fungi present. The process of sample collection varies depending on the source; for instance, hair samples are typically obtained by plucking diseased follicles, skin samples are collected by scraping cells from the edges of lesions, and nail samples are taken by scraping or clipping the affected areas. The collected samples are then subjected to a culture process that allows for the growth of fungi, which can be presumptively identified based on their characteristics. While this procedure provides valuable preliminary information regarding the presence of fungal organisms, it is important to note that further laboratory tests may be necessary to achieve a definitive identification of the specific mold or yeast isolates present in the culture.