CPT® Code 87800

The CPT® Code 87800 refers to a laboratory test designed for the detection of multiple infectious agents through the analysis of nucleic acids, specifically DNA or RNA. This procedure employs a direct probe technique, which is a method that utilizes labeled probes to identify unique nucleic acid sequences, known as target sequences, associated with the suspected infectious organisms present in a given sample. The test is particularly valuable in clinical settings where rapid and accurate identification of pathogens is crucial for effective patient management. The direct probe technique involves treating the sample to release nucleic acids from the target organisms, if they are indeed present. The labeled probe, which may be tagged with fluorescent or chemiluminescent markers, selectively binds to the target sequence, forming a stable hybrid. This method is advantageous because it can target ribosomal RNA, which is typically found in high quantities within microorganisms, thereby enhancing the likelihood of detection compared to genomic DNA, which may exist in fewer copies. Additionally, the procedure can be complemented by amplification techniques, such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), to significantly increase the sensitivity of the assay by exponentially replicating the target nucleic acid sequences before detection.