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CPT®
87594

CPT® Code 87594

Official Description

Infectious agent detection by nucleic acid (DNA or RNA); Pneumocystis jirovecii, amplified probe technique

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

Pneumocystis jirovecii is a type of fungus that is primarily responsible for causing pneumocystis pneumonia, a serious infection that predominantly affects individuals who are immunocompromised, such as those with HIV/AIDS, cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, or organ transplant recipients. The detection of this infectious agent is critical for timely diagnosis and treatment. The CPT® Code 87594 refers to the method of infectious agent detection by nucleic acid, specifically targeting the DNA or RNA of Pneumocystis jirovecii. The amplified probe technique, which includes the use of real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), is recognized as the gold standard for identifying this pathogen. This technique is highly sensitive and specific, allowing for the accurate detection of the organism in clinical specimens. Typically, specimens for testing may include bronchoalveolar lavage or bronchial washings, which are preferred when available, although sputum or cough expectorate samples can also be utilized. The process begins with the extraction of nucleic acid from the collected sample, which is then incorporated into a PCR mixture. The PCR platform amplifies a designated region of the extracted DNA, and a melting curve analysis is performed to ascertain the presence of Pneumocystis jirovecii. During this analysis, the sample is subjected to heating in the presence of a dye, which allows for the differentiation of mutated DNA from normal DNA strands based on their melting points, ultimately leading to a positive or negative test result.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

Testing for Pneumocystis jirovecii is indicated in specific clinical scenarios where there is a suspicion of pneumocystis pneumonia, particularly in patients who are immunocompromised. The following conditions warrant the use of CPT® Code 87594:

  • Immunocompromised State Patients with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS, are at a higher risk for developing pneumocystis pneumonia and require testing to confirm the presence of the fungus.
  • Cancer Patients Individuals undergoing chemotherapy may experience immunosuppression, making them susceptible to infections like pneumocystis pneumonia, thus necessitating testing.
  • Organ Transplant Recipients Patients who have received organ transplants are often on immunosuppressive therapy to prevent organ rejection, increasing their risk for pneumocystis pneumonia and requiring diagnostic testing.

2. Procedure

The procedure for detecting Pneumocystis jirovecii using CPT® Code 87594 involves several critical steps, which are outlined below:

  • Specimen Collection The first step in the procedure is the collection of an appropriate specimen. This may involve obtaining bronchoalveolar lavage or bronchial washings, which are preferred due to their higher yield of the organism. If these methods are not feasible, a sample of sputum or cough expectorate may be collected instead.
  • Nucleic Acid Extraction Once the specimen is collected, nucleic acid is extracted from the sample. This step is crucial as it isolates the DNA or RNA of Pneumocystis jirovecii for further analysis.
  • Preparation of PCR Mixture The extracted nucleic acid is then added to a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) mixture. This mixture contains the necessary reagents for amplification, including primers specific to the target organism.
  • Amplification Process The PCR platform is utilized to amplify a specific region of the extracted DNA. This amplification process is essential for increasing the quantity of the target nucleic acid to detectable levels.
  • Melting Curve Analysis Following amplification, a melting curve analysis is performed. This involves heating the sample in the presence of a dye, which allows for the differentiation of mutated DNA from normal DNA strands based on their melting points. The results of this analysis will indicate whether the test is positive or negative for Pneumocystis jirovecii.

3. Post-Procedure

After the procedure, the results of the nucleic acid detection test will be analyzed and reported. If the test is positive, appropriate clinical management and treatment for pneumocystis pneumonia should be initiated promptly, especially in immunocompromised patients. It is also important for healthcare providers to monitor the patient for any signs of infection and to consider follow-up testing if necessary. Documentation of the procedure and results is essential for maintaining accurate medical records and ensuring continuity of care.
Short Descr PNEUMCYSTS JIROVECII AMP PRB
Medium Descr IADNA PNEUMOCYSTIS JIROVECII AMPLIFIED PROBE TQ
Long Descr Infectious agent detection by nucleic acid (DNA or RNA); Pneumocystis jirovecii, 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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