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87073 Culture bacteria anaerobic

Pathology & Lab

Also known as: Anaerobic culture, Anaerobe culture, Anaerobic bacterial

Bacterial culture of specimens using anaerobic methodology. Detects obligate and facultative anaerobes.

In Plain Language

Oxygen-sensitive bacteria test

Clinical Context

Used for specimens from normally sterile sites or where anaerobes suspected (abscesses, bone, biliary, intra-abdominal infections).

RVU Information

CPT 87073 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

MicrobiologyPathology

Frequently Asked Questions

What is CPT code 87073?

CPT 87073 (Culture bacteria anaerobic) is a Pathology & Lab code. Bacterial culture of specimens using anaerobic methodology. Detects obligate and facultative anaerobes.

Who uses CPT code 87073?

CPT 87073 is used by Microbiology, Pathology. Used for specimens from normally sterile sites or where anaerobes suspected (abscesses, bone, biliary, intra-abdominal infections).

When is CPT 87073 used?

Used for specimens from normally sterile sites or where anaerobes suspected (abscesses, bone, biliary, intra-abdominal infections).

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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.