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CPT®
87478

CPT® Code 87478

Official Description

Infectious agent detection by nucleic acid (DNA or RNA); Borrelia miyamotoi, amplified probe technique

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

A laboratory test designated by CPT® Code 87478 is utilized for the detection of the infectious agent Borrelia miyamotoi through the analysis of nucleic acids, specifically DNA or RNA, using an amplified probe technique. Borrelia miyamotoi is classified as a spirochete, a type of bacteria that is transmitted to humans primarily through tick bites. Infection with this organism can lead to a range of symptoms, including chills, fever, headache, fatigue, joint pain, body aches, and in some cases, a rash. The detection of Borrelia miyamotoi is achieved through advanced molecular techniques, particularly polymerase chain reaction (PCR) methods, which are capable of amplifying the target DNA or RNA sequences to facilitate identification. The process involves the exponential amplification of the nucleic acid target, allowing for the detection of even minute quantities of the pathogen. Techniques such as real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) or reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) are commonly employed, with RT-PCR specifically converting RNA into complementary DNA (cDNA) prior to amplification. This sophisticated testing method is critical for accurate diagnosis and management of infections caused by Borrelia miyamotoi, ensuring that healthcare providers can make informed decisions based on the presence of the pathogen in the patient's sample.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The procedure associated with CPT® Code 87478 is indicated for the detection of Borrelia miyamotoi in patients who may exhibit symptoms consistent with infection. These indications include:

  • Chills A sensation of coldness often accompanied by shivering, which can occur during the onset of fever.
  • Fever An elevated body temperature that may indicate an underlying infection.
  • Headache A common symptom that can vary in intensity and duration, often associated with various infections.
  • Fatigue A state of extreme tiredness or lack of energy, which can be a result of infection.
  • Joint Pain Discomfort or pain in the joints, which may be a symptom of inflammatory responses due to infection.
  • Body Aches Generalized discomfort or pain throughout the body, often accompanying infections.
  • Rash A change in skin color or texture that may appear in some cases of Borrelia miyamotoi infection.

2. Procedure

The procedure for detecting Borrelia miyamotoi using CPT® Code 87478 involves several critical steps that ensure accurate identification of the pathogen's nucleic acids. These steps include:

  • Sample Collection A biological sample, typically blood, is collected from the patient for analysis. This sample contains the nucleic acids that will be tested for the presence of Borrelia miyamotoi.
  • RNA Conversion If RNA is the target, the sample undergoes a conversion process where reverse transcriptase is used to synthesize complementary DNA (cDNA) from the RNA present in the sample.
  • Preparation of PCR Reaction The cDNA or DNA sample is then placed in a PCR tube along with specific DNA primers, a polymerase enzyme, and fluorescent dyes or probes that will bind to the target sequence.
  • Denaturation The PCR process begins with the denaturation step, where the DNA is heated to separate it into single strands, allowing access for the primers.
  • Annealing and Extension As the temperature cools, the primers bind to the single-stranded DNA, and the polymerase enzyme synthesizes new strands of DNA, creating double-stranded duplicates. This cycle of denaturation, annealing, and extension is repeated multiple times, typically 35-40 cycles, to amplify the target DNA exponentially.
  • Real-Time Detection In real-time PCR, the amplification of the DNA is monitored continuously through the use of fluorescent or chemiluminescent probes that emit signals when they bind to the target sequence. This allows for the quantification of the nucleic acid present in the sample.
  • Reporting Throughout the amplification process, data is collected and analyzed, resulting in a report that documents the absolute or relative amounts of the detected nucleic acid sequence, providing critical information for diagnosis.

3. Post-Procedure

After the completion of the procedure associated with CPT® Code 87478, the laboratory generates a report detailing the findings of the nucleic acid detection. This report is crucial for healthcare providers to interpret the results accurately. Depending on the findings, further clinical evaluation or treatment may be warranted. Patients may not require specific post-procedure care, but they should be informed about the potential for follow-up consultations based on the test results. Additionally, it is essential to ensure that the results are communicated effectively to the healthcare team for appropriate management of the patient's condition.
Short Descr BORRELIA MIYAMOTOI AMP PRB
Medium Descr IADNA BORRELIA MIYAMOTOI AMPLIFIED PRB TECHNIQUE
Long Descr Infectious agent detection by nucleic acid (DNA or RNA); Borrelia miyamotoi, amplified probe technique
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) none
MUE 1
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.
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.
GY Item or service statutorily excluded, does not meet the definition of any medicare benefit or, for non-medicare insurers, is not a contract benefit
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2023-01-01 Added Code added.
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