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CPT 87420: Respiratory Syncytial Virus Antigen Detection, Immunoassay
CPT code 87420 denotes an immunoassay performed to detect respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) antigens. RSV testing is a common component of respiratory viral diagnostics, particularly for infants, young children, older adults, and immunocompromised patients. Nationally, accurate and timely RSV antigen testing supports clinical decision-making, infection control in congregate settings, and appropriate use of antiviral or supportive therapies. The code reflects a lab-based antigen detection method, often performed when rapid diagnosis is needed.
Key payers covered in this analysis include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find a national overview of clinical use and coding context for CPT code 87420, including typical sites of service and service type. The publication provides benchmarking insights where available, notes relevant policy and coverage considerations affecting RSV antigen testing, and summarizes clinical context for ordering and interpreting immunoassay-based RSV tests. Data not available in the input will be identified as such.
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Billing Code Overview
CPT code 87420 describes a laboratory immunoassay performed by a lab analyst to detect respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) antigens. The method specified is an immunoassay technique, such as enzyme immunoassay (EIA), used to identify viral antigens in patient specimens.
Service type: Laboratory diagnostic test — immunoassay antigen detection
Typical site of service: Clinical laboratory or hospital laboratory setting, including outpatient laboratory draw stations and inpatient hospital labs where specimen processing and immunoassay testing occur.
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