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The CPT® Code 87555 refers to a laboratory test designed for the detection of the infectious agent Mycobacteria tuberculosis through the use of nucleic acid techniques, specifically targeting DNA or RNA. Mycobacteria tuberculosis is a gram-positive, acid-fast bacterium that is the causative agent of both latent tuberculosis infection and active tuberculosis disease. This bacterium can affect the lungs, leading to pulmonary tuberculosis, but it can also disseminate to other areas of the body. Common symptoms associated with pulmonary tuberculosis include a persistent cough, chest pain, and systemic symptoms such as fatigue, weight loss, anorexia, fever, chills, and night sweats. The transmission of tuberculosis occurs primarily through respiratory secretions, making it highly contagious and potentially fatal if not treated appropriately. The direct probe technique utilized in this test involves identifying a specific nucleic acid sequence, known as the target sequence, that is unique to the M. tuberculosis organism, should it be present in the sample collected. The probe used in this test is labeled with either fluorescent or chemiluminescent markers, allowing for precise detection. The sample undergoes treatment to release nucleic acids from the target organism, and the labeled probe binds specifically to the matching target sequence, forming a stable hybrid. Ribosomal RNA is often the focus of this detection method due to its abundance in microorganisms, as it is typically present in thousands of copies compared to the limited copies found in genomic DNA. This method is distinct from the amplified probe technique, which significantly enhances assay sensitivity by exponentially multiplying the target sequence of M. tuberculosis DNA or RNA into millions of copies, often utilizing polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) for amplification. The amplified sequences can then be identified using labeled DNA probes, and further quantification of these nucleic acid sequences can provide valuable information regarding the number of microorganisms present in the sample.
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The CPT® Code 87555 is indicated for the detection of Mycobacteria tuberculosis in patients who may present with symptoms or conditions associated with tuberculosis infection. The following are specific indications for performing this laboratory test:
The procedure for CPT® Code 87555 involves several critical steps to ensure accurate detection of Mycobacteria tuberculosis. The following outlines the procedural steps:
After the completion of the procedure associated with CPT® Code 87555, the laboratory will analyze the results and report the findings. It is essential for healthcare providers to interpret the results in conjunction with clinical findings and patient history. If Mycobacteria tuberculosis is detected, appropriate treatment and follow-up care should be initiated based on established clinical guidelines. Additionally, if the test is negative but clinical suspicion remains high, further testing or alternative diagnostic methods may be warranted to ensure accurate diagnosis and management of tuberculosis.
| Short Descr | M.TUBERCULO DNA DIR PROBE | Medium Descr | IADNA MYCOBACTERIA TUBERCULOSIS DIR PRB | Long Descr | Infectious agent detection by nucleic acid (DNA or RNA); Mycobacteria tuberculosis, 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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