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The CPT® Code 87552 refers to a laboratory test designed for the detection of the infectious agent Mycobacteria species through the analysis of nucleic acids, specifically DNA or RNA. Mycobacteria species encompass a variety of gram-positive, acid-fast bacteria, including notable strains such as M. bovis, M. africanum, M. kansasii, M. gordanae, M. asiaticum, M. gastri, M. malmoense, M. marinum, M. scrofulaceum, M. simiae, and M. szulgai. Infections caused by these organisms can lead to a range of symptoms, which may vary based on the specific species involved. Common manifestations include respiratory illnesses and skin lesions, often characterized by a chronic and progressive nature. The testing process involves a direct probe test, which identifies a unique nucleic acid sequence known as the target sequence of the Mycobacteria organism, provided it is present in the respiratory or tissue sample collected. This probe is labeled with either fluorescent or chemiluminescent markers to facilitate detection. The sample undergoes treatment to release nucleic acids from the target organism, allowing the labeled probe to specifically bind to the matching target sequence, forming a stable hybrid. Ribosomal RNA is frequently the focus of these tests due to its abundance in microorganisms, as it exists in thousands of copies compared to the limited 1-2 copies found in genomic DNA. To enhance the sensitivity of the assay, an amplified probe technique is employed, which exponentially increases the target sequence of Mycobacteria DNA or RNA into millions of copies. The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) is the most commonly utilized amplification method. Following amplification, the replicated sequences are identified using labeled DNA probes. The nucleic acid detection process, particularly with quantification, provides a measure of the number of microorganisms present in the sample. Quantitative or real-time PCR is often utilized to amplify the isolated nucleic acid segment, generating reports at each stage to document the absolute or relative amounts of the known nucleic acid sequence.
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The CPT® Code 87552 is indicated for use in the detection and quantification of Mycobacteria species in clinical samples. The following conditions and symptoms may warrant the performance of this test:
The procedure for CPT® Code 87552 involves several critical steps to ensure accurate detection and quantification of Mycobacteria species. The following procedural steps are outlined:
After the completion of the procedure associated with CPT® Code 87552, the laboratory will analyze the results and generate a report detailing the presence and quantity of Mycobacteria species detected in the sample. Clinicians will review these results to inform diagnosis and treatment decisions. It is important to note that the interpretation of results should be made in conjunction with clinical findings and other diagnostic tests. Follow-up care may be necessary based on the results, particularly if a Mycobacterial infection is confirmed, to ensure appropriate management and treatment of the patient.
| Short Descr | MYCOBACTERIA DNA QUANT | Medium Descr | IADNA MYCOBACTERIA SPECIES QUANTIFICATION | Long Descr | Infectious agent detection by nucleic acid (DNA or RNA); Mycobacteria 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) |
| 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. | 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. | GW | Service not related to the hospice patient's terminal condition | 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 |
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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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