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The CPT® Code 87623 pertains to the detection of infectious agents through nucleic acid testing, specifically targeting the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) low-risk types, which include types 6, 11, 42, 43, and 44. HPV is a virus that can invade the skin and mucosal epithelia, leading to both clinical and subclinical infections. There are over 100 known types of HPV that can infect humans, with approximately 40 types predominantly affecting the anogenital region. Among these, certain high-risk oncogenic HPV types are often associated with high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSIL) and invasive cancers, while low-risk types are linked to conditions such as acuminate condylomas and low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (LSIL) of the cervix. The detection of HPV through nucleic acid testing has become a standard practice in managing cervical disease in women. The procedure involves collecting exfoliated cervical cells using tools such as a cytobrush, swab, or plastic spatula, which are then suspended in a liquid transport medium. The collected cell sample undergoes treatment with sodium hydroxide to denature the DNA, followed by hybridization with two mixtures of non-isotope single-stranded RNA probes—one for low-risk HPV types and another for high-risk types. The resulting hybridized products are transferred to a microplate with antibody-coated wells that specifically recognize the HPV DNA/RNA hybrids. An alkaline phosphatase-labeled monoclonal antibody is added, along with a chemiluminescent substrate, and the emitted light is measured using a luminometer to determine the ratio of reactivity. This code is specifically utilized when testing for the aforementioned low-risk HPV types, distinguishing it from other codes that address high-risk types or combinations of both low- and high-risk types.
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The CPT® Code 87623 is indicated for the detection of low-risk types of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) in patients who may present with symptoms or conditions associated with HPV infections. The following are specific indications for performing this test:
The procedure for detecting low-risk HPV types using CPT® Code 87623 involves several detailed steps to ensure accurate results. The process begins with the collection of exfoliated cervical cells from the patient. This is typically done using a cytobrush, swab, or plastic spatula, which allows for the effective gathering of cells from the cervix. Once collected, these cells are re-suspended in a liquid transport medium to preserve their integrity during transport to the laboratory. The next step involves treating the cell sample with sodium hydroxide, which serves to denature the DNA present in the cells. This denaturation is crucial as it prepares the DNA for the subsequent hybridization process. Following this, the sample is hybridized in a solution containing two distinct mixtures of non-isotope single-stranded RNA probes. One of these probes is specifically designed to detect the five low-risk HPV types (6, 11, 42, 43, and 44), while the other targets 13 high-risk HPV types. After hybridization, the resulting products are transferred to a microplate that contains antibody-coated wells, which are specifically designed to recognize the HPV DNA/RNA hybrids formed during the hybridization process. To facilitate detection, an alkaline phosphatase-labeled monoclonal antibody is added to the wells, along with a chemiluminescent substrate. The interaction between the antibody and the hybrids produces light, which is then measured using a luminometer. The intensity of the light emitted correlates with the presence and quantity of the HPV DNA/RNA hybrids, providing a quantitative result for the test.
After the completion of the HPV testing procedure using CPT® Code 87623, the laboratory will analyze the results and report them back to the healthcare provider. It is essential for the provider to discuss the results with the patient, particularly if low-risk HPV types are detected. Depending on the findings, further management may be required, including monitoring or additional diagnostic procedures. Patients may also be advised on preventive measures, such as vaccination against HPV, to reduce the risk of future infections. The expected recovery from the procedure itself is minimal, as it is a non-invasive test involving only the collection of cervical cells. Patients can typically resume normal activities immediately following the sample collection.
| Short Descr | HPV LOW-RISK TYPES | Medium Descr | IADNA HUMAN PAPILLOMAVIRUS LOW-RISK TYPES | Long Descr | Infectious agent detection by nucleic acid (DNA or RNA); Human Papillomavirus (HPV), low-risk types (eg, 6, 11, 42, 43, 44) | 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 |
| 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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| 2015-01-01 | Added | Added |
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