CPT® Code 87903

Infectious agent phenotype analysis by nucleic acid (DNA or RNA) with drug resistance tissue culture analysis, HIV 1; first through 10 drugs tested

Infectious agent phenotype analysis by nucleic acid (DNA or RNA) for HIV-1 is a specialized laboratory procedure that assesses the virus's characteristics and its resistance to various antiretroviral medications. This analysis is crucial for managing HIV infections, as it helps healthcare providers determine the most effective treatment options for patients. The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) specifically targets the immune system, particularly the T cells or CD4 cells, which are essential for the body's ability to combat infections. When these cells are destroyed, the immune system becomes compromised, leading to increased susceptibility to opportunistic infections and diseases. HIV is the causative agent of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), which represents the advanced stage of HIV infection. The phenotyping process typically involves obtaining a blood sample, although tissue samples may also be utilized. The collected sample is cultured in a laboratory setting, where it undergoes testing to evaluate its resistance to multiple antiretroviral drugs at varying concentrations. This complex testing procedure demands significant labor and expertise from skilled clinicians to ensure accurate interpretation of the results. For coding purposes, the CPT® code 87903 is designated for the analysis of the first ten drugs tested, while 87904 is used for each additional drug beyond the initial ten.