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The CPT® Code 87540 refers to a laboratory test designed for the detection of the infectious agent Legionella pneumophila through the use of nucleic acid techniques, specifically targeting DNA or RNA. Legionella pneumophila is a gram-negative bacterium commonly found in aquatic environments, and it is known to cause serious respiratory illnesses, including pneumonia, which is often referred to as Legionnaire’s Disease, as well as a milder illness known as Pontiac Fever. The procedure utilizes a direct probe technique that identifies a unique nucleic acid sequence, known as the target sequence, specific to the L. pneumophila organism. This test is particularly valuable in clinical settings where rapid and accurate identification of the pathogen is crucial for effective patient management. The direct probe is labeled with either fluorescent or chemiluminescent markers, allowing for the visualization of the hybridization event when the probe binds to the target sequence in the respiratory specimen. The sample undergoes treatment to release nucleic acids from the organism, if present, facilitating the binding of the labeled probe to the target sequence. This method is advantageous as it targets ribosomal RNA, which is typically present in high quantities within microorganisms, thereby enhancing the likelihood of detection compared to genomic DNA, which may exist in fewer copies. The procedure is distinct from amplified probe techniques, which significantly increase sensitivity by exponentially replicating the target nucleic acid sequences, thus allowing for more reliable detection of the pathogen in clinical specimens.
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The CPT® Code 87540 is indicated for the detection of the infectious agent Legionella pneumophila in respiratory specimens. This test is particularly relevant in the following clinical scenarios:
The procedure for CPT® Code 87540 involves several critical steps to ensure accurate detection of Legionella pneumophila:
After the completion of the procedure associated with CPT® Code 87540, the laboratory will analyze the results to determine the presence of Legionella pneumophila. The findings are typically reported to the healthcare provider, who will interpret the results in the context of the patient's clinical presentation. If the test is positive, appropriate treatment options can be initiated promptly. Additionally, if the test is part of an outbreak investigation, further epidemiological measures may be taken based on the results. It is important for healthcare providers to monitor the patient for any signs of complications or the need for further diagnostic testing.
| Short Descr | LEGION PNEUMO DNA DIR PROB | Medium Descr | IADNA LEGIONELLA PNEUMOPHILA DIRECT PROBE TQ | Long Descr | Infectious agent detection by nucleic acid (DNA or RNA); Legionella pneumophila, 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) |
| 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. | 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. | GC | This service has been performed in part by a resident under the direction of a teaching physician | XU | Unusual non-overlapping service, the use of a service that is distinct because it does not overlap usual components of the main service |
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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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