CPT® Code 87483

Infectious agent detection by nucleic acid (DNA or RNA); central nervous system pathogen (eg, Neisseria meningitidis, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Listeria, Haemophilus influenzae, E. coli, Streptococcus agalactiae, enterovirus, human parechovirus, herpes simplex virus type 1 and 2, human herpesvirus 6, cytomegalovirus, varicella zoster virus, Cryptococcus), includes multiplex reverse transcription, when performed, and multiplex amplified probe technique, multiple types or subtypes, 12-25 targets

The CPT® Code 87483 refers to a laboratory test designed for the detection of infectious agents within the central nervous system (CNS) by analyzing nucleic acids, specifically DNA or RNA. This test is crucial for identifying various pathogens that can cause serious CNS infections, such as Neisseria meningitidis, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Listeria, Haemophilus influenzae, E. coli, Streptococcus agalactiae, enterovirus, human parechovirus, herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2, human herpesvirus 6, cytomegalovirus, varicella zoster virus, and Cryptococcus. The complexity of diagnosing CNS infections arises from the overlapping symptoms with other conditions, including meningitis, encephalitis, and brain mass lesions, which can be caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites. Traditional methods of pathogen detection, such as culture or antigen-antibody based techniques, may be slower and less sensitive compared to this targeted nucleic acid testing. The procedure involves collecting cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) through a lumbar puncture, which is a separate reportable procedure. The analysis of the CSF sample is performed using a multiplex reverse transcription and multiplex amplified probe technique, allowing for the simultaneous detection of multiple types or subtypes of pathogens, typically ranging from 12 to 25 targets. This advanced testing method enhances the speed and accuracy of diagnosing CNS infections, facilitating timely and appropriate treatment for affected patients.