CPT 87270: Chlamydia trachomatis Antigen Detection by Immunofluorescence
CPT code 87270 represents an immunofluorescent laboratory test for detection of Chlamydia trachomatis antigens. This code is used for direct antigen detection via fluorescent-labeled antibodies and is relevant across outpatient, clinic, and hospital laboratory services where infectious disease testing is performed. Nationally, antigen detection methods remain part of the diagnostic toolkit for sexually transmitted infections and can impact laboratory workflows and public health surveillance.
Key payers in the analysis include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find concise benchmarks for utilization and reimbursement patterns, clinical context for when immunofluorescent antigen testing is used versus other diagnostic modalities, and relevant coding considerations for laboratory services. The summary highlights where CPT code 87270 fits within laboratory service lines and typical sites of service, and outlines policy and billing elements that influence coverage and claims processing. Data not available in the input is noted where applicable.
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Billing Code Overview
CPT code 87270 describes a laboratory procedure in which a laboratory analyst performs an immunofluorescent test to detect antigens of Chlamydia trachomatis. The method uses fluorescent-labeled antibodies to identify bacterial antigens in clinical specimens.
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Service type: Laboratory infectious disease testing
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Typical site of service: Clinical laboratory or hospital laboratory (specimens collected in outpatient clinics, physician offices, urgent care centers, or inpatient settings and sent to a laboratory for analysis)