CPT® Code 87106

The CPT® Code 87106 refers to a laboratory procedure specifically designed for the culture and definitive identification of fungi, focusing on yeast organisms. This test is crucial in the diagnostic process for fungal or yeast infections, as it allows healthcare professionals to accurately identify the specific type of yeast present in a sample. The identification process involves growing the yeast in a controlled culture environment, where it can be isolated and examined. The laboratory utilizes both macroscopic and microscopic techniques to observe the morphology of the yeast, which aids in its identification. Furthermore, advanced methods such as nucleic acid hybridization probes, D2rDNA gene sequencing, real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), or MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry may be employed to confirm the identity of the pathogen at a molecular level. It is important to note that each organism identified in the culture is reported separately, and if multiple colonies are present, the code can be reported multiple times. Specifically, CPT® Code 87106 is designated for the identification of yeast genus and species, while a different code, CPT® Code 87107, is used for the identification of mold genus and species.