2025 CPT code 87501
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Pathology and Laboratory - Microbiology Procedures Feed
Infectious agent detection by nucleic acid (DNA or RNA); influenza virus, reverse transcription and amplified probe technique, each type or subtype
Modifiers 59 and 91 are applicable as described in the coding guidelines.
Medically necessary when the identification of the specific influenza type or subtype is crucial for patient management or public health surveillance.
In simple words: This test helps identify different types of the flu virus using a technique that looks at the virus's genetic material. It's a very accurate way to tell if someone has the flu and what kind they have.
This code describes a laboratory test to detect the presence of influenza virus through nucleic acid detection. It includes reverse transcription, if performed, and amplified probe technique for each type or subtype of influenza virus.
Example 1: A patient presents with flu-like symptoms during flu season. A sample is collected and tested using 87501 to confirm the diagnosis of influenza and determine the specific type/subtype., A patient is hospitalized with severe respiratory illness. 87501 is used to quickly and accurately diagnose influenza, allowing for targeted antiviral treatment if necessary., A public health agency uses 87501 to track the prevalence of different influenza strains in a community, helping to inform public health interventions.
Documentation should include the type of specimen collected, the reason for testing, and the signs and symptoms of the patient.