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The CPT® Code 87557 refers to a laboratory test designed for the detection of the infectious agent Mycobacteria tuberculosis through the analysis of nucleic acids, specifically 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 as well as other areas of the body. Common symptoms associated with pulmonary tuberculosis include a persistent cough and chest pain, while systemic symptoms may encompass fatigue, weight loss, anorexia, fever, chills, and night sweats. Tuberculosis is transmitted from person to person primarily through respiratory secretions, making it highly contagious and potentially fatal if not treated appropriately. The testing process involves a direct probe test, which identifies a unique nucleic acid sequence known as the target sequence of the M. tuberculosis organism, provided it is present in the sample. This probe is labeled with either fluorescent or chemiluminescent markers. 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 often the focus of these tests due to its abundance in microorganisms, as it is typically found in thousands of copies compared to the 1-2 copies of genomic DNA. In the amplified probe technique, which is represented by CPT® Code 87556, the sensitivity of the assay is significantly enhanced by exponentially multiplying the target sequence of M. tuberculosis DNA or RNA into millions of copies. The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) is the most commonly employed amplification technique. Following amplification, the replicated sequences are identified using labeled DNA probes. The CPT® Code 87557 specifically pertains to the quantification of these amplified nucleic acid sequences, providing an assessment of the number of microorganisms present in the sample. Quantitative or real-time PCR is frequently utilized to amplify the isolated nucleic acid segment and generate a report documenting the absolute or relative amounts of the known nucleic acid sequence at each stage of the process.
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The CPT® Code 87557 is indicated for the detection and quantification of Mycobacteria tuberculosis in patients who may be exhibiting symptoms of tuberculosis or who are at risk for the disease. The following conditions and symptoms may warrant the use of this test:
The procedure for CPT® Code 87557 involves several critical steps to ensure accurate detection and quantification of Mycobacteria tuberculosis. The following procedural steps are outlined:
After the completion of the procedure associated with CPT® Code 87557, the laboratory will analyze the results and generate a report detailing the presence and quantity of Mycobacteria tuberculosis in the sample. Clinicians will review these results to determine the appropriate course of action for the patient, which may include further diagnostic testing, initiation of treatment, or monitoring of the patient's condition. It is important for healthcare providers to communicate the results to the patient and discuss any necessary follow-up care or additional testing that may be required based on the findings. Additionally, proper documentation of the test results and any subsequent actions taken is essential for compliance and continuity of care.
| Short Descr | M.TUBERCULO DNA QUANT | Medium Descr | IADNA MYCOBACTERIA TUBERCULOSIS QUANTIFICATION | Long Descr | Infectious agent detection by nucleic acid (DNA or RNA); Mycobacteria tuberculosis, 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) |
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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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