2025 CPT code 87808

Infectious agent antigen detection by immunoassay with direct optical observation; Trichomonas vaginalis.

Follow CPT coding guidelines for microbiology procedures. Refer to the most recent CPT manual for detailed guidance.Use modifier 59 for multiple specimens/sites and modifier 91 for repeat tests on the same day.

Modifiers 59 (distinct procedural service) and 91 (repeat clinical diagnostic laboratory test) may be applicable.Other modifiers might be necessary based on payer-specific requirements.

Medical necessity is established when there is clinical suspicion of trichomoniasis based on patient symptoms (vaginal discharge, dysuria, etc.) and/or clinical examination findings.The test is also medically necessary for confirming a diagnosis or as part of routine sexually transmitted infection screening.

The clinical responsibility lies with the laboratory analyst who performs all technical aspects of the immunoassay.The ordering physician is responsible for clinical decision-making based on the results in the context of the patient’s clinical presentation and history.

IMPORTANT For direct probe techniques, use code 87660.Specimen collection may be separately coded (e.g., 36415 for venous blood collection).If additional molecular studies are performed, codes 87140-87158 should be used in addition to 87808. Molecular diagnostic codes (e.g., 81161, 81200-81408) are not to be used in combination with or instead of codes 87140-87158.

In simple words: This lab test checks for a parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis, which causes a sexually transmitted infection. The test uses a special technique that gives a quick visual result to show if the parasite is present.

This CPT code, 87808, represents the laboratory procedure for detecting the presence of Trichomonas vaginalis antigen using an immunoassay method with direct visual observation.The test involves mixing a specimen (often a vaginal or penile swab) with a reagent containing antibodies specific to T. vaginalis. A visual reaction, such as a color change or the appearance of a line, indicates a positive result. This method is commonly used in the diagnosis of trichomoniasis, a sexually transmitted infection.

Example 1: A female patient presents with vaginal discharge and suspected trichomoniasis. A vaginal swab is collected and sent to the lab for testing using code 87808., A male patient reports symptoms consistent with a sexually transmitted infection.A urethral swab is collected and tested using code 87808. The results are negative., A urine sample from a patient with suspected urogenital infection is tested for the presence of Trichomonas vaginalis using code 87808 as a confirmatory test after microscopic examination.

Properly labeled specimen (with patient identifiers and collection date/time), requisition form with relevant clinical information (patient demographics, symptoms, suspected diagnosis, ordering physician information), results of the immunoassay, and any additional relevant clinical notes.

** This code should only be used for immunoassay methods with direct visual observation.Other methods of Trichomonas vaginalis detection require different codes.

  • Revenue Code: T1H (LAB TESTS - OTHER)
  • Payment Status: Active
  • Modifier TC rule: Not applicable.
  • Specialties:Obstetrics and Gynecology, Urology, Infectious Disease, Clinical Microbiology
  • Place of Service:Office, Laboratory, Urgent Care Facility, Hospital (Inpatient or Outpatient)
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