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86780 Treponema pallidum

Pathology & Lab

Also known as: Syphilis serology, RPR, VDRL, FTA-ABS

Serologic testing to detect antibodies against Treponema pallidum, the spirochete that causes syphilis. Confirms infection and monitors treatment response.

In Plain Language

Syphilis test; Sexually transmitted infection antibody test

Clinical Context

Used for syphilis screening, diagnosis confirmation, and treatment monitoring. Both nontreponemal (rapid plasma reagin, Venereal Disease Research Laboratory) and treponemal (fluorescent treponemal antibody absorption, microhemagglutination) tests employ different methodologies.

RVU Information

CPT 86780 does not have a physician work RVU assigned by CMS. Reimbursement for this code is determined by payer-specific fee schedules.

Billing & Documentation

Lab and pathology codes require an order from the treating provider with clinical indication. For molecular pathology and genetic testing, document the specific analytes tested and clinical rationale.

How This Code Compares

This code has a work RVU of 0.00, meaning it does not have a physician work component assigned by CMS. In the Pathology & Lab category, 94% of codes share this characteristic.

Specialties

PathologyInfectious DiseaseDermatology

Frequently Asked Questions

What is CPT code 86780?

CPT 86780 (Treponema pallidum) is a Pathology & Lab code. Serologic testing to detect antibodies against Treponema pallidum, the spirochete that causes syphilis. Confirms infection and monitors treatment response.

Who uses CPT code 86780?

CPT 86780 is used by Pathology, Infectious Disease, Dermatology. Used for syphilis screening, diagnosis confirmation, and treatment monitoring. Both nontreponemal (rapid plasma reagin, Venereal Disease Research Laboratory) and treponemal (fluorescent treponemal antibody absorption, microhemagglutination) tests employ different methodologies.

When is CPT 86780 used?

Used for syphilis screening, diagnosis confirmation, and treatment monitoring. Both nontreponemal (rapid plasma reagin, Venereal Disease Research Laboratory) and treponemal (fluorescent treponemal antibody absorption, microhemagglutination) tests employ different methodologies.

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CPT® is a registered trademark of the American Medical Association. Data sourced from CMS Physician Fee Schedule RVU26A. Descriptions, synonyms, and clinical context are original content by RVU Edge.