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The CPT® Code 87495 refers to a laboratory test designed to detect the infectious agent known as cytomegalovirus (CMV) through the analysis of nucleic acids, specifically DNA or RNA. Cytomegalovirus is a member of the herpesvirus family and is commonly transmitted from person to person via infected bodily fluids, which include blood, saliva, urine, semen, and breast milk. While CMV infection is prevalent in the general population, it typically manifests as a disease resembling mononucleosis primarily in individuals who are immunocompromised. In neonates, congenital or perinatal CMV infection can lead to severe health issues if symptoms are present at birth, or it may result in long-term complications such as hearing loss or vision impairment that may develop later in life. Additionally, pregnant women who contract CMV have the potential to transmit the virus to their fetus, which can have serious implications for the infant's health. The direct probe technique utilized in this test involves identifying a specific nucleic acid sequence, referred to as the target sequence, of the CMV if it is present in the biological sample. This process employs a probe that is labeled with either fluorescent or chemiluminescent markers. The sample undergoes treatment to release nucleic acids from the target organism, and the labeled probe selectively binds to the matching target sequence, forming a stable hybrid. This method is particularly effective because ribosomal RNA is often targeted, as it exists in numerous copies within most microorganisms, unlike genomic DNA, which may only have one or two copies. The test is distinct from the amplified probe technique, which significantly enhances assay sensitivity by exponentially multiplying the target sequence of CMV DNA or RNA into millions of copies, often utilizing polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) for amplification. This allows for the identification of replicated sequences through labeled DNA probes, providing a robust method for detecting the presence of CMV in clinical samples.
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The CPT® Code 87495 is indicated for the detection of cytomegalovirus (CMV) in various clinical scenarios. The following conditions may warrant the use of this test:
The procedure for CPT® Code 87495 involves several critical steps to ensure accurate detection of cytomegalovirus (CMV) nucleic acids. The following outlines the procedural steps:
After the completion of the procedure associated with CPT® Code 87495, the laboratory will analyze the results and report the findings. It is essential for healthcare providers to interpret the results in the context of the patient's clinical presentation and history. If CMV is detected, further clinical management may be necessary, especially for immunocompromised patients or newborns with congenital infection. Follow-up testing or additional diagnostic procedures may be recommended based on the initial findings. Healthcare providers should also consider counseling patients regarding the implications of a positive CMV test, particularly in pregnant women and parents of affected neonates.
| Short Descr | CYTOMEG DNA DIR PROBE | Medium Descr | IADNA CYTOMEGALOVIRUS DIRECT PROBE TQ | Long Descr | Infectious agent detection by nucleic acid (DNA or RNA); cytomegalovirus, direct 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) | T1H - Lab tests - other (non-Medicare fee schedule) | MUE | 1 | CCS Clinical Classification | 206 - Microscopic examination (bacterial smear, culture, toxicology) |
| 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. |
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| 2011-01-01 | Changed | Short description changed. |
| 1998-01-01 | Added | First appearance in code book in 1998. |
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