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The CPT® Code 87272 refers to a laboratory test specifically designed for the detection of cryptosporidium antigen using an immunofluorescent technique. This test is crucial for identifying the presence of the protozoan parasite Cryptosporidium, which is commonly found in contaminated food and water sources. Upon ingestion, Cryptosporidium can invade the intestinal wall, leading to a range of gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting. These symptoms typically manifest within a few days and can last from one to two weeks. In healthy individuals with a competent immune system, the infection is often self-limiting, meaning it resolves without the need for extensive medical intervention. However, for those who are immunocompromised, the infection can become persistent and may lead to more severe health complications. The testing process involves obtaining a fecal sample, which is then processed to concentrate the oocytes of the parasite. The sample is fixed onto a slide and treated with antibodies that are conjugated to fluorescein isothiocyanate, allowing for visualization under an epifluorescence microscope. If Cryptosporidium oocytes are present, they will bind to the antibodies, resulting in a bright green fluorescence that indicates a positive test result. This method is recognized for its higher sensitivity compared to other testing methods, such as enzyme immunoassays or direct fecal examinations, making it a preferred choice for accurate diagnosis.
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The CPT® Code 87272 is indicated for the detection of cryptosporidium antigen in patients who present with gastrointestinal symptoms that may suggest a cryptosporidial infection. The following conditions warrant the use of this test:
The procedure for performing the test under CPT® Code 87272 involves several critical steps to ensure accurate detection of cryptosporidium antigens:
After the completion of the test, the results are typically available within a short timeframe, allowing for timely diagnosis and management of the patient's condition. If the test result is positive, further clinical evaluation and treatment may be necessary, especially for immunocompromised patients who may require more intensive medical intervention. It is important for healthcare providers to monitor the patient's symptoms and overall health following the test, as cryptosporidial infections can lead to complications if not addressed appropriately. Additionally, proper hygiene and sanitation measures should be reinforced to prevent the spread of the infection, particularly in settings where individuals may be at higher risk.
| Short Descr | CRYPTOSPORIDIUM AG IF | Medium Descr | IAADI CRYPTOSPORIDIUM | Long Descr | Infectious agent antigen detection by immunofluorescent technique; cryptosporidium | Status Code | Statutory Exclusion (from MPFS, may be paid under other methodologies) | Global Days | XXX - Global Concept Does Not Apply | PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) | 9 - Not Applicable | Multiple Procedures (51) | 9 - Concept does not apply. | Bilateral Surgery (50) | 9 - Concept does not apply. | Physician Supervisions | 09 - Concept does not apply. | Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) | 9 - Concept does not apply. | Co-Surgeons (62) | 9 - Concept does not apply. | Team Surgery (66) | 9 - Concept does not apply. | Diagnostic Imaging Family | 99 - Concept Does Not Apply | CLIA Waived (QW) | No | APC Status Indicator | Conditionally packaged laboratory tests | Type of Service (TOS) | 5 - Diagnostic Laboratory | Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) | T1H - Lab tests - other (non-Medicare fee schedule) | MUE | 1 | CCS Clinical Classification | 206 - Microscopic examination (bacterial smear, culture, toxicology) |
| 26 | Professional component: certain procedures are a combination of a physician or other qualified health care professional component and a technical component. when the physician or other qualified health care professional component is reported separately, the service may be identified by adding modifier 26 to the usual procedure number. | 59 | Distinct procedural service: under certain circumstances, it may be necessary to indicate that a procedure or service was distinct or independent from other non-e/m services performed on the same day. modifier 59 is used to identify procedures/services, other than e/m services, that are not normally reported together, but are appropriate under the circumstances. documentation must support a different session, different procedure or surgery, different site or organ system, separate incision/excision, separate lesion, or separate injury (or area of injury in extensive injuries) not ordinarily encountered or performed on the same day by the same individual. however, when another already established modifier is appropriate it should be used rather than modifier 59. only if no more descriptive modifier is available, and the use of modifier 59 best explains the circumstances, should modifier 59 be used. note: modifier 59 should not be appended to an e/m service. to report a separate and distinct e/m service with a non-e/m service performed on the same date, see modifier 25. | 90 | Reference (outside) laboratory: when laboratory procedures are performed by a party other than the treating or reporting physician or other qualified health care professional, the procedure may be identified by adding modifier 90 to the usual procedure number. | GA | Waiver of liability statement issued as required by payer policy, individual case |
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| 2011-01-01 | Changed | Short description changed. |
| 2004-01-01 | Changed | Code description changed. |
| 2001-01-01 | Changed | Code description changed. |
| 1998-01-01 | Added | First appearance in code book in 1998. |
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