CPT code 87537 designates a molecular diagnostic assay using a direct nucleic acid probe to detect human immunodeficiency virus type 2 (HIV‑2). This test is clinically important because HIV‑2 differs from HIV‑1 in transmission dynamics, disease progression, and some treatment considerations; detecting HIV‑2 informs appropriate patient management and public health surveillance. Nationally, accurate identification of HIV‑2 supports diagnostic clarity in patients with atypical serologic results or risk factors for non‑HIV‑1 infection.

Key payers included in the analysis are Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find a concise overview of the clinical context for CPT code 87537, typical sites where the service is performed, and what the code represents operationally. The publication also outlines expected benchmarks and policy considerations relevant to laboratory coding and payment for molecular HIV testing, as well as clinical implications for differential diagnosis between HIV‑1 and HIV‑2.

This summary provides national-level context for coding and clinical teams, laboratory billing staff, and policy analysts seeking a focused briefing on the role and relevance of CPT code 87537 in diagnostic workflows and payer coverage frameworks.