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Official Description

Infectious agent detection by nucleic acid (DNA or RNA); Candida species, quantification

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The CPT® Code 87482 refers to the detection of infectious agents through nucleic acid techniques, specifically focusing on Candida species. This procedure involves quantifying the presence of Candida, a type of fungus that is typically found on the skin and in mucous membranes, such as the vagina, mouth, or rectum. Under normal circumstances, Candida does not cause harm; however, it can become pathogenic, leading to an infection known as Candidiasis moniliasis, particularly when there is a disruption in the body's chemical balance. This condition is more likely to affect individuals who are on antibiotics, those with weakened immune systems, and infants. Candidiasis can manifest in various areas, including the mouth, skin, nails, and vagina, and in rarer cases, it may also impact the esophagus or gastrointestinal tract. The nucleic acid detection tests for Candida are primarily utilized for vaginal infections and can include rapid testing methods that may be conducted in a physician's office using specialized test kits. The quantification process in CPT® Code 87482 is crucial as it not only identifies the presence of Candida but also assesses the severity of the infection and the patient's response to treatment, providing valuable information for clinical decision-making.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The procedure associated with CPT® Code 87482 is indicated for the detection and quantification of Candida species in patients who may be experiencing symptoms of Candidiasis. The following conditions and situations warrant the use of this test:

  • Vaginal Infections - The test is primarily performed to diagnose vaginal candidiasis, which can present with symptoms such as itching, discharge, and irritation.
  • Immunocompromised Patients - Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those undergoing chemotherapy or living with HIV/AIDS, are at a higher risk for Candida infections and may require testing.
  • Antibiotic Use - Patients who have recently taken antibiotics may be susceptible to overgrowth of Candida, making this test relevant for monitoring potential infections.
  • Infants - Newborns and infants, particularly those with oral thrush or diaper rash, may be tested for Candida infections.

2. Procedure

The procedure for CPT® Code 87482 involves several key steps to ensure accurate detection and quantification of Candida species. The following outlines the procedural steps:

  • Sample Collection - A vaginal swab is obtained from the patient to collect a specimen that may contain Candida organisms. This sample is crucial for the subsequent testing process.
  • Cell Lysis - The collected sample is treated with a lysate that ruptures all cells, releasing the nucleic acids present in the specimen. This step is essential for isolating the target DNA or RNA from the Candida species.
  • Incubation and Probe Attachment - The lysate is placed in a sample well, and the test slide is dipped into the well and incubated robotically. A Candida-specific probe, which is attached to a stationary microparticle bead, captures the target nucleic acid sequence during this incubation phase.
  • Washing and Color Development - After the bead captures the target DNA, the slide is washed to remove any cellular debris and unbound nucleic acids. A second probe containing a color development substrate is then added, followed by another wash. An enzyme is introduced to catalyze the color substrate, leading to a color change if Candida is present.
  • Quantification - In this final step, the amplified product is quantified to determine the number of Candida organisms present in the sample. This quantification is critical for assessing the severity of the infection and monitoring the patient's response to treatment.

3. Post-Procedure

After the procedure associated with CPT® Code 87482, the results of the test will be analyzed to determine the presence and quantity of Candida species. Patients may be advised on the next steps based on the results, which could include further diagnostic testing, treatment options, or monitoring for response to therapy. It is important for healthcare providers to communicate the results clearly to the patient and discuss any necessary follow-up care or additional interventions that may be required based on the severity of the infection.

Short Descr CANDIDA DNA QUANT
Medium Descr IADNA CANDIDA SPECIES QUANTIFICATION
Long Descr Infectious agent detection by nucleic acid (DNA or RNA); Candida species, quantification
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)
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.
T6 Right foot, second digit
TA Left foot, great toe
GV Attending physician not employed or paid under arrangement by the patient's hospice provider
T5 Right foot, great toe
T2 Left foot, third digit
GW Service not related to the hospice patient's terminal condition
T9 Right foot, fifth digit
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.
91 Repeat clinical diagnostic laboratory test: in the course of treatment of the patient, it may be necessary to repeat the same laboratory test on the same day to obtain subsequent (multiple) test results. under these circumstances, the laboratory test performed can be identified by its usual procedure number and the addition of modifier 91. note: this modifier may not be used when tests are rerun to confirm initial results; due to testing problems with specimens or equipment; or for any other reason when a normal, one-time, reportable result is all that is required. this modifier may not be used when other code(s) describe a series of test results (eg, glucose tolerance tests, evocative/suppression testing). this modifier may only be used for laboratory test(s) performed more than once on the same day on the same patient.
LT Left side (used to identify procedures performed on the left side of the body)
T1 Left foot, second digit
T3 Left foot, fourth digit
T4 Left foot, fifth digit
T7 Right foot, third digit
XS Separate structure, a service that is distinct because it was performed on a separate organ/structure
XU Unusual non-overlapping service, the use of a service that is distinct because it does not overlap usual components of the main service
Date
Action
Notes
2011-01-01 Changed Short description changed.
1998-01-01 Added First appearance in code book in 1998.
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