CPT® Code 87230

The CPT® Code 87230 refers to a laboratory procedure known as a toxin or antitoxin assay performed using tissue culture methods. This assay is specifically designed to detect the presence of toxins produced by certain organisms, such as Clostridium difficile, which is a bacterium that can cause severe gastrointestinal issues. In this procedure, a stool sample is collected from the patient, which serves as the specimen for testing. The primary goal of this assay is to identify whether the stool contains toxins that indicate an infection or other pathological conditions related to the organism. The use of tissue culture in this context allows for a more accurate assessment of the presence of these harmful substances, thereby aiding in the diagnosis and management of infections associated with toxin-producing bacteria.