Need help choosing the right code?
Ask CasePilot about procedures, modifiers, bundling, and coding guidance.
Try CasePilot© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.
The CPT® Code 87537 refers to the detection of the infectious agent HIV-2 through nucleic acid techniques, specifically utilizing a direct probe method. This procedure is essential for identifying the presence of HIV-2, one of the two serotypes of the human immunodeficiency virus, which can lead to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). HIV-2 is primarily transmitted through sexual contact, but it can also be spread through unscreened blood transfusions, sharing of needles, from mother to child during pregnancy or childbirth, and through breastfeeding. The virus targets the immune system by attacking T-cells, also known as CD4 cells, which are crucial for the body's defense against infections. The testing process begins with obtaining a blood sample from the patient. In the context of CPT® Code 87537, a direct probe technique is employed, which is less common due to its requirement for culturing the specimen. This method contrasts with other techniques such as amplified probe methods, which utilize amplification processes like reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) to detect lower levels of the virus. The direct probe technique involves several steps, including the lysis of red blood cells to isolate leukocytes, washing the leukocytes, and extracting DNA from the resulting pellet. The presence of HIV-2 DNA is then determined using specific detection methods. This testing is critical for diagnosing HIV-2 infections and monitoring the viral load, which is essential for evaluating treatment responses.
© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.
The procedure associated with CPT® Code 87537 is indicated for the detection of HIV-2 in patients who may be at risk for this specific serotype of the human immunodeficiency virus. The following conditions or situations warrant the use of this testing:
The procedure for CPT® Code 87537 involves several critical steps to accurately detect HIV-2 using a direct probe technique. The following outlines the procedural steps:
After the completion of the procedure associated with CPT® Code 87537, the patient may be advised on several post-procedure considerations. It is important to monitor for any potential side effects or complications related to the blood draw, such as bruising or discomfort at the puncture site. Additionally, patients should be informed about the timeline for receiving test results, which can vary based on laboratory processing times. If the test result is positive for HIV-2, further counseling and follow-up testing may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis and assess the viral load. Patients should also be educated on the importance of safe practices to prevent the transmission of HIV and the need for regular medical follow-up to manage their health effectively.
| Short Descr | HIV-2 DNA DIR PROBE | Medium Descr | IADNA HIV-2 DIRECT PROBE TECHNIQUE | Long Descr | Infectious agent detection by nucleic acid (DNA or RNA); HIV-2, 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) |
|
Date
|
Action
|
Notes
|
|---|---|---|
| 2011-01-01 | Changed | Short description changed. |
| 1998-01-01 | Added | First appearance in code book in 1998. |
Get instant expert-level medical coding assistance.