In simple words: After a lab test finds possible harmful bacteria that grow without air (anaerobic bacteria), this code describes the additional tests a lab does to confirm exactly what type of bacteria it is.

Culture, bacterial; anaerobic isolate, additional methods required for definitive identification, each isolate. This code represents additional tests performed on a presumptively identified anaerobic organism to achieve definitive identification (e.g., to the species level), using methods such as biochemical panels or slide cultures.

Example 1: A patient has a deep wound infection with suspected anaerobic bacteria. A sample is cultured, and initial tests suggest the presence of anaerobic bacteria. Code 87076 is used for the further tests to identify the specific species of bacteria., A patient presents with abdominal pain and abscess.Fluid from the abscess is collected and cultured, with presumptive identification of anaerobic bacteria.CPT code 87076 is reported for the additional testing required to definitively identify the organism, which aids in selecting the most appropriate antibiotic treatment., Following a presumptive identification of Clostridium species in a culture taken from a patient with suspected gas gangrene, the lab performs additional biochemical tests to confirm the species and ensure accurate treatment recommendations. Code 87076 applies to these additional tests.

Documentation should include the initial culture results with the presumptive identification of the anaerobic organism, the specific additional tests performed for definitive identification, and the final identification of the organism (genus and species).