2025 CPT code 87481

Infectious agent detection by nucleic acid (DNA or RNA); Candida species, amplified probe technique.

For multiple specimens/sites use modifier 59. For repeat laboratory tests performed on the same day, use modifier 91. Do not report molecular diagnostic codes (e.g., 81161, 81200-81408) in conjunction with 87140-87158.

Modifiers 59 (Distinct Procedural Service) and 91 (Repeat Clinical Diagnostic Laboratory Test) may be applicable. Modifier 59 is used to indicate that a procedure was performed on a different site or specimen from another procedure on the same day. Modifier 91 is used when the same lab test is repeated on the same day due to specific clinical circumstances.

Medical necessity for 87481 is established when the patient presents with signs or symptoms suggestive of a Candida infection, such as vaginal discharge, oral thrush, skin lesions, or systemic illness. The test helps confirm the diagnosis and guide treatment decisions.

The laboratory analyst processes the specimen and performs the amplified probe technique. This involves amplification methods like PCR, creating multiple copies of target nucleic acid sequences. A labeled nucleic acid probe is used to identify the presence of amplified sequences, indicating the presence of Candida species. This allows for rapid and specific identification of Candida infections.

IMPORTANT For tests detecting Candida antibodies or skin tests, use 86628 or 86485. Differentiate 87480 (direct probe), 87481 (amplified probe), and 87482 (quantification tests) for Candida species.

In simple words: This test helps identify a yeast infection by looking for the genetic material (DNA or RNA) of Candida species in a sample like a vaginal swab or sputum.The test makes many copies of the genetic material to make it easier to detect, and then uses a special "probe" that sticks to the Candida DNA/RNA if it's present. This helps diagnose yeast infections quickly and accurately.

This procedure is a molecular diagnostic test used to detect the presence of Candida species in a patient. It uses advanced techniques to amplify and identify the DNA or RNA of the fungus, providing a rapid and definitive diagnosis. The amplified probe technique makes millions of copies of a specific target nucleic acid sequence, which are then assessed using a nucleic acid probe to visualize the hybridization product, confirming the presence of Candida species.This test is often used to diagnose infections such as vaginal yeast infections or thrush.

Example 1: A patient presents with symptoms suggestive of a vaginal yeast infection. A vaginal swab is collected and sent for testing using code 87481 to confirm the presence of Candida species., An infant with white patches in their mouth is suspected of having oral thrush. A swab of the affected area is collected and tested using code 87481 to identify the presence of Candida infection., A patient with a weakened immune system develops symptoms of a systemic Candida infection. Blood or other bodily fluids are collected and tested using code 87481 to detect the presence of Candida species and guide appropriate treatment.

Documentation should include the patient's symptoms, the source of the specimen, the order for the test, the test results, and the interpretation of the results by a qualified healthcare professional. It is important to document the specific Candida species identified if available. If additional tests like molecular probes or sequencing are performed, they should be documented and coded separately.

  • Revenue Code: T1H - LAB TESTS - OTHER (NON-MEDICARE FEE SCHEDULE)
  • Specialties:Microbiology, Infectious Disease, Gynecology, Pediatrics, Internal Medicine
  • Place of Service:Office, Inpatient Hospital, Outpatient Hospital, Independent Laboratory
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