CPT® Code 87281

The CPT® Code 87281 refers to a laboratory test specifically designed for the detection of the Pneumocystis carinii antigen using an immunofluorescent technique. Pneumocystis carinii, now known as Pneumocystis jirovecii, is a unicellular fungus that is particularly significant in the context of opportunistic infections, especially among individuals who are immunocompromised. This includes patients with conditions such as HIV/AIDS, various primary immune deficiencies like CD40-ligand deficiency and X-linked hyper-IgM syndrome, as well as those suffering from severe combined immunodeficiency, severe malnutrition, and organ transplant recipients. The test is typically performed on respiratory samples, which may include bronchial washings, bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL), or induced sputum. The procedure involves treating the collected sample with a detecting reagent that contains antibodies specific to Pneumocystis, along with a counterstain. The sample is then examined under an epifluorescence microscope. If Pneumocystis carinii is present in the sample, the antibodies will bind to the antigens, resulting in a distinct color change that can be observed through the microscope. This method is noted for its rapid results, although it may be less sensitive compared to other techniques such as reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The symptoms associated with Pneumocystis carinii infections include dyspnea, particularly during exertion, fever, chills, a non-productive cough, chest pain, weight loss, tachypnea, and tachycardia, which are critical indicators for clinicians when considering this diagnostic test.