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The CPT® Code 87626 pertains to the detection of infectious agents through nucleic acid testing, specifically targeting the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). 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, with approximately 40 types predominantly affecting the anogenital tract. Among these, certain high-risk oncogenic types, such as HPV types 16, 18, 31, 45, 51, and 52, are often associated with high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSIL) and invasive cancers. Conversely, low-risk HPV 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 testing process involves collecting exfoliated cervical cells using tools like a cytobrush, swab, or plastic spatula, which are then suspended in a liquid transport medium. The 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 singular high-risk HPV types along with pooled results, ensuring accurate identification and management of potential HPV-related diseases.
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The CPT® Code 87626 is indicated for the detection of high-risk types of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) in patients who may be at risk for cervical disease. The specific indications for this procedure include:
The procedure for CPT® Code 87626 involves several detailed steps to ensure accurate detection of high-risk HPV types. 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 collection 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.
Next, the cell sample undergoes treatment with sodium hydroxide. This step is crucial as it denatures the DNA, making it easier for the subsequent hybridization process to occur. Following denaturation, the sample is hybridized in a solution containing two mixtures of non-isotope single-stranded RNA probes. One of these probes is designed to detect five low-risk HPV types, while the other is tailored to identify 13 high-risk HPV types.
After hybridization, the hybridized products are transferred to a microplate that contains antibody-coated wells. These wells 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, which binds to the DNA/RNA hybrids. Subsequently, a chemiluminescent substrate is introduced, which reacts with the enzyme to produce light. The intensity of this light is measured using a luminometer, providing a quantitative result that indicates the presence of high-risk HPV types in the sample.
After the completion of the testing procedure associated with CPT® Code 87626, the results are analyzed and interpreted by laboratory professionals. The expected outcome is a report detailing the presence or absence of high-risk HPV types, which is critical for guiding further clinical management. Patients may be advised on follow-up care based on the results, which could include additional testing, monitoring, or treatment options if high-risk HPV types are detected. It is essential for healthcare providers to communicate the results effectively to patients and discuss any necessary next steps in their care plan.
| Short Descr | HPV SEP HI-RSK TYP&POOL RSLT | Medium Descr | IADNA HPV SEP RPRT HI-RSK TYP&HI-RSK POOLD RSLTS | Long Descr | Infectious agent detection by nucleic acid (DNA or RNA); Human Papillomavirus (HPV), separately reported high-risk types (eg, 16, 18, 31, 45, 51, 52) and high-risk pooled result(s) | 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. |
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| 2025-01-01 | Added | Code Added. |
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