2025 CPT code 87526

Detection of hepatitis G virus using amplified nucleic acid probe technique.

Refer to CPT guidelines for microbiology procedures. For multiple specimens/sites, use modifier 59. For repeat tests on the same day, use modifier 91. This code should not be used with molecular diagnostic codes.

Modifiers may be applicable. Use modifier 59 for distinct procedural services and modifier 91 for repeat tests on the same day.

Medical necessity is established by the presence of signs, symptoms, or risk factors suggestive of HGV infection. This may include abnormal liver function tests, known exposure to contaminated blood, or co-infection with other bloodborne viruses.

Laboratory professionals process the specimen, perform amplification techniques (like PCR), and analyze the results using nucleic acid probes to identify the presence of HGV.This specialized testing requires technical expertise in molecular diagnostics.

IMPORTANT Consider other hepatitis G tests: 87525 (direct probe), 87527 (quantification).For specimen collection, consider 36415 (venipuncture). Molecular diagnostic codes (87140-87158, 81161, 81200-81408) should not be reported in conjunction with this code.

In simple words: This test looks for the presence of the hepatitis G virus in a blood sample. It uses a very sensitive method to detect even tiny amounts of the virus's genetic material. This helps doctors diagnose hepatitis G, even if the infection is mild or causing no symptoms.

This test identifies the presence of hepatitis G virus (HGV or GBV) by amplifying specific nucleic acid sequences (DNA or RNA) from the patient's sample, typically serum or plasma. The amplified sequences are then detected using a labeled nucleic acid probe that hybridizes with the target sequence, enabling visualization and confirmation of HGV infection.This method is highly sensitive and can detect even minute amounts of the virus.

Example 1: A patient with suspected hepatitis G infection due to mild liver inflammation and a history of blood transfusions undergoes this test to confirm the diagnosis., An individual co-infected with HIV or hepatitis C is tested for HGV, as co-infections are common., A patient undergoing dialysis is screened for HGV due to the increased risk of transmission in this setting.

Documentation should include the patient's signs and symptoms, relevant medical history (blood transfusions, dialysis, other infections), the reason for testing, and the test results.

  • Payment Status: Active
  • Specialties:Pathology, Infectious Disease, Hepatology
  • Place of Service:Independent Laboratory, Hospital Laboratory
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