CPT® Code 87591

The CPT® Code 87591 refers to the detection of the infectious agent Neisseria gonorrhoeae through nucleic acid testing, specifically utilizing an amplified probe technique. Neisseria gonorrhoeae is the bacterium responsible for gonorrhea, a prevalent sexually transmitted disease (STD) that can be transmitted through direct sexual contact. This infection can affect various anatomical sites, including the reproductive tract, mouth, throat, eyes, and anus. In many cases, particularly among women, N. gonorrhoeae infections may be asymptomatic, which poses a significant risk as the lack of symptoms can lead to severe complications, including irreversible damage to the reproductive system and potential infertility. Conversely, men typically exhibit symptoms such as burning sensations, itching, and urethral discharge, although they are less likely to experience long-term reproductive damage. The testing process for N. gonorrhoeae often involves the collection of specimens using a swab from affected areas such as the cervix, male urethra, mouth, throat, or eyes. The nucleic acid tests can vary in methodology, with some rapid tests available for use in a physician's office. The amplification technique employed in CPT® Code 87591, such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or transcription-mediated amplification (TMA), is particularly useful when the suspected levels of the microorganism in the specimen are low, which may not be detectable through direct probe methods. This amplification allows for the creation of multiple copies of the nucleic acids from N. gonorrhoeae, enhancing the likelihood of detection. The subsequent identification of these nucleic acids can be performed using various detection techniques, providing critical information for diagnosis and treatment management.