CPT® Code 87591 is used to report a nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT) for Neisseria gonorrhoeae. The test uses an amplified molecular method to detect genetic material from N. gonorrhoeae, the bacterium that causes gonorrhea.
Testing may be performed when gonorrhea is suspected based on symptoms, exposure, screening recommendations, or other clinical factors.
Key Facts About CPT® 87591
- Service type: Molecular laboratory test
- Test: Neisseria gonorrhoeae nucleic acid amplification test
- Method: Amplified probe technique
- Specimen: May include urine or appropriate genital, rectal, or pharyngeal specimens depending on the testing method and clinical setting
- Purpose: Detect N. gonorrhoeae infection
- Provider type: Physicians, qualified healthcare professionals, and laboratories
Common clinical indications:
- Suspected gonorrhea
- Routine or risk-based STI screening
- Known exposure to gonorrhea
- Genitourinary symptoms
- Follow-up testing when clinically appropriate
- Screening of patients with increased risk for sexually transmitted infections
When to Use CPT® 87591
CPT 87591 may be reported when a laboratory performs a molecular amplification test to detect Neisseria gonorrhoeae.
Examples:
- Testing a patient with symptoms suggestive of gonorrhea
- Screening based on sexual health risk factors or applicable recommendations
- Testing following a known or suspected exposure
- Evaluating a patient with a suspected sexually transmitted infection
The appropriate specimen should be collected according to the laboratory's validated testing method and the suspected site of infection.
Documentation Requirements
Documentation supporting CPT 87591 should include:
- Patient identifiers and date of service
- Clinical indication for testing
- Relevant symptoms or exposure history
- Appropriate specimen and collection site
- Gonorrhea NAAT ordered or performed
- Test result and laboratory reference information
- Assessment and diagnosis, when applicable
- Treatment or follow-up plan based on the result
Clear documentation helps establish the clinical reason for testing and supports appropriate laboratory coding.
Reimbursement and Coding Considerations
- CPT 87591 represents molecular detection of Neisseria gonorrhoeae
- The code should be reported based on the test actually performed and the applicable specimen or testing methodology
- Chlamydia testing may be performed separately and reported with the appropriate code when indicated
- Coverage and medical-necessity requirements vary by payer
- Practices should verify payer-specific requirements before submitting claims
- Positive results should be interpreted in conjunction with the patient's symptoms, history, and clinical assessment
How OptiMantra Supports STI Testing Documentation
OptiMantra helps practices organize laboratory testing, results, and related clinical information within the patient chart.
With OptiMantra, providers can:
- Document gonorrhea testing and the clinical indication
- Record STI symptoms, exposure history, and relevant findings
- Maintain laboratory results within the patient's medical record
- Link test results to diagnoses and treatment plans
- Document follow-up recommendations based on laboratory findings
Keeping STI testing and follow-up information connected within the patient chart supports consistent documentation throughout the patient's care.
Try OptiMantra for free here!
Disclaimer: CPT® codes are maintained by the American Medical Association. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not replace official coding guidelines or payer policies.
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