2025 CPT code 87285
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Laboratory - Microbiology Procedures Pathology and Laboratory Procedures Feed
Detection of Treponema pallidum antigens using immunofluorescent techniques.
Modifiers 59 (distinct procedural service) and 91 (repeat clinical diagnostic laboratory test) may be applicable depending on the circumstances.
Medical necessity for this test is established based on the clinical suspicion of Treponema pallidum infection, such as symptoms consistent with syphilis or other treponematoses, or as part of routine screening for high-risk populations (e.g., pregnant women).
The clinical responsibility lies with the laboratory analyst who performs all technical aspects of the test, from specimen handling to microscopic evaluation and interpretation of results. The ordering physician is responsible for clinical decision-making based on the laboratory results and patient history.
In simple words: This lab test checks for the presence of syphilis bacteria (Treponema pallidum) in a sample like blood. It uses special dyes and a microscope to see if the bacteria are there.
This CPT code encompasses the laboratory analysis to detect Treponema pallidum antigens in a primary source specimen (e.g., blood) using immunofluorescence techniques.The procedure involves the technical steps of preparing slides, mixing fluorescent-tagged antibodies specific to Treponema pallidum antigens with the specimen, and microscopic examination to evaluate fluorescence staining patterns indicative of infection.The results aid in the diagnosis or exclusion of Treponema pallidum infections, primarily syphilis but also including bejel, pinta, and yaws.
Example 1: A patient presents with a chancre (a painless sore) consistent with primary syphilis.The physician orders this test on a blood sample to confirm the diagnosis., A pregnant woman undergoes routine prenatal testing, which includes this test to screen for syphilis to protect both mother and child., A patient with a history of syphilis is undergoing treatment, and this test is ordered to monitor the effectiveness of therapy.
* Patient demographics and relevant medical history.* Specimen source (e.g., blood) and collection date and time.* Detailed description of the testing methodology used.* Microscopic images or other documentation of the observed fluorescent staining patterns.* Results interpretation and reporting of the findings (positive or negative).* Physician's order and interpretation of results.
** This test is specific for the detection of Treponema pallidum antigens. It should not be used in place of or in combination with molecular diagnostic tests.
- Revenue Code: T1H (LAB TESTS - OTHER)
- Payment Status: Active
- Modifier TC rule: Not applicable.
- Specialties:Infectious Disease, Dermatology, Obstetrics/Gynecology, Urology
- Place of Service:Laboratory, Physician's Office, Hospital