2025 CPT code 87516
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Microbiology - Infectious Agent Detection Pathology and Laboratory Feed
Detects Hepatitis B virus in a sample using an amplified nucleic acid probe technique.
Modifiers 59 (distinct procedural service) and 91 (repeat test on the same day) may be appropriate in certain circumstances.
Medical necessity is established when there is a clinical suspicion of hepatitis B infection based on the patient's symptoms, risk factors, or exposure history.Monitoring for chronic HBV also warrants the test.
Clinical laboratories or medical technologists are responsible for performing the test and interpreting the results. Physicians order the test and interpret the results in the context of patient history and other clinical findings.
In simple words: This lab test checks for the hepatitis B virus in your blood. It uses a special technique to make many copies of the virus's genetic material, so even tiny amounts can be found.
This CPT code, 87516, represents the detection of Hepatitis B virus (HBV) in a patient sample using an amplified nucleic acid probe technique.The procedure involves amplification of the target nucleic acid sequence (usually through PCR), followed by detection using a labeled probe that hybridizes to the amplified sequence.The presence of the hybridized probe indicates the presence of HBV.This method is highly sensitive and allows for the detection of even small amounts of viral DNA or RNA.
Example 1: A patient presents with symptoms suggestive of acute hepatitis B infection (e.g., jaundice, fatigue, abdominal pain).This test is ordered to confirm the diagnosis., A patient is being evaluated for chronic hepatitis B infection.This test helps to monitor viral load over time and assess the response to treatment., A pregnant woman is screened for HBV to assess risk to the newborn and guide appropriate preventive measures.
Patient demographics, test requisition with clinical indication, sample collection date and time, results of the amplified probe assay, interpretation of the results, and physician's signature.
** This test is usually performed on serum or plasma samples.Specific requirements for sample collection and handling should be followed according to laboratory protocols.
- Revenue Code: T1H (LAB TESTS - OTHER)
- RVU: The relative value units (RVUs) for this code vary based on geographic location, facility type, and other factors.Consult your local Medicare fee schedule or other payer's reimbursement guidelines for accurate RVU values.
- Payment Status: Active
- Modifier TC rule: Not applicable. This is a laboratory test.
- Fee Schedule : Historical fee schedule data is not available in the provided sources.Check a reliable historical CPT code database for this information.
- Specialties:Infectious disease, hepatology, gastroenterology, general practice.
- Place of Service:Office, hospital outpatient, laboratory.