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CPT®
87564

CPT® Code 87564

Official Description

Infectious agent detection by nucleic acid (DNA or RNA); Mycobacterium tuberculosis, rifampin resistance, amplified probe technique

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The CPT® Code 87564 pertains to the detection of the infectious agent Mycobacterium tuberculosis, specifically focusing on its resistance to the antibiotic rifampin. This resistance is identified through a molecular technique known as the amplified probe technique, which includes methods such as the Xpert MTB/RIF assay and the MLP-RAP assay. Rifampin resistance arises from mutations in the core region of the rpoB gene, which is critical for the bacterium's survival and replication. The global rise in drug-resistant tuberculosis represents a significant public health challenge, making the detection of rifampin resistance crucial for effective treatment and control of the disease. The testing process utilizes a sputum sample, which is analyzed to determine the presence of rifampin-resistant strains of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Rapid assay tests, such as the Xpert MTB/RIF, facilitate early detection, allowing healthcare providers to promptly select appropriate treatment regimens and implement necessary infection control measures. The procedure involves mixing the sputum sample with a reagent that contains molecular beacons designed to amplify a specific sequence within the rpoB gene. This mixture is then placed in a GeneXpert machine, which automates the testing process and provides results within a two-hour timeframe. Other molecular beacon tests may employ multiple labeled probes in a single tube polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay, each targeting different sequences of the rpoB gene and labeled with distinct color fluorophores. The detection of luminescence from all five colors during PCR amplification indicates the presence of rifampin-resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The procedure associated with CPT® Code 87564 is indicated for the detection of rifampin resistance in Mycobacterium tuberculosis. This testing is particularly relevant in the following scenarios:

  • Diagnosis of Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis The test is performed to confirm the presence of rifampin-resistant strains of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which is essential for the accurate diagnosis of multi-drug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB).
  • Monitoring Treatment Efficacy It is used to monitor the effectiveness of treatment regimens in patients diagnosed with tuberculosis, especially those who are at risk of or suspected to have drug-resistant strains.
  • Public Health Surveillance The procedure aids in public health efforts to track and control the spread of drug-resistant tuberculosis, which poses a significant threat to global health.

2. Procedure

The procedure for CPT® Code 87564 involves several critical steps to ensure accurate detection of rifampin resistance in Mycobacterium tuberculosis:

  • Step 1: Sample Collection A sputum sample is collected from the patient, which serves as the biological specimen for testing. Proper collection techniques are essential to ensure the sample's integrity and reliability for subsequent analysis.
  • Step 2: Sample Preparation The collected sputum is mixed with a reagent that contains molecular beacons. These beacons are designed to bind to specific sequences within the rpoB gene, which is associated with rifampin resistance. This step is crucial for amplifying the target DNA or RNA sequences during the testing process.
  • Step 3: Testing with GeneXpert Machine The prepared mixture is placed into a disposable cartridge, which is then inserted into the GeneXpert machine. This automated system performs the necessary amplification and detection processes, significantly reducing the time required to obtain results.
  • Step 4: Result Interpretation Within approximately two hours, the GeneXpert machine provides automated results indicating the presence or absence of rifampin-resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The rapid turnaround time is vital for timely clinical decision-making.
  • Step 5: Additional Testing (if necessary) In cases where further confirmation is needed, other molecular beacon tests may be employed. These tests utilize multiple labeled probes in a single tube polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay, each targeting different sequences of the rpoB gene. The detection of luminescence from various color fluorophores during PCR amplification confirms the presence of rifampin-resistant strains.

3. Post-Procedure

After the completion of the testing procedure associated with CPT® Code 87564, the following post-procedure considerations are important:

Patients may be advised on the importance of follow-up consultations to discuss the results and potential treatment options based on the findings. If rifampin resistance is detected, healthcare providers will need to consider alternative treatment regimens tailored to combat the resistant strain of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Additionally, appropriate infection control measures should be implemented to prevent the spread of drug-resistant tuberculosis, particularly in healthcare settings. Continuous monitoring and evaluation of the patient's response to treatment will be necessary to ensure effective management of the condition.
Short Descr MTB RIFAMPIN RST AMP PRB TQ
Medium Descr IADNA MTB RIFAMPIN RESISTANCE AMP PRB TQ
Long Descr Infectious agent detection by nucleic acid (DNA or RNA); Mycobacterium tuberculosis, rifampin resistance, amplified 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) none
MUE Not applicable/unspecified.
Date
Action
Notes
2025-01-01 Added Code Added.
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