CPT® Code 87470

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The CPT® Code 87470 refers to a laboratory test designed for the detection of specific infectious agents, namely Bartonella henselae and Bartonella quintana, through the use of nucleic acid techniques, specifically targeting DNA or RNA. Bartonella is classified as a small, gram-negative bacillus that poses challenges in terms of isolation and culture in laboratory settings. The significance of this test lies in its ability to identify the presence of these pathogens rapidly, circumventing the traditional culture methods that can be time-consuming and less effective. The direct probe technique employed in this test utilizes nucleic acid probes that are specifically designed to bind to unique sequences of the Bartonella species' genetic material, known as the target sequence. This binding occurs if the target sequence is present in the sample being tested. The probes used in this process are labeled with either fluorescent or chemiluminescent markers, which facilitate the detection of the hybridized sequences. The procedure involves treating the sample to release nucleic acids from the target organism, allowing the labeled probe to form a stable hybrid with the target sequence. Ribosomal RNA is often the focus of these tests due to its abundance in microorganisms, making it a reliable target for detection. This method is particularly important for diagnosing conditions associated with these pathogens, such as cat scratch disease caused by B. henselae, which can lead to serious disseminated infections, and trench fever or bacillary angiomatosis associated with B. quintana, especially in immunocompromised individuals such as those with HIV. Overall, the use of nucleic acid detection techniques represents a significant advancement in the rapid identification of these infectious agents, enhancing diagnostic capabilities in clinical laboratories.