87164 Dark field examination specimen collj
Also known as: dark field microscopy, darkfield exam, spirochete exam, DF microscopy
Microscopic examination of specimens using dark field illumination microscopy with collection of sample using direct darkfield visualizations of spirochetes and motile organisms.
In Plain Language
special microscope test for spirochetes
Clinical Context
Primary method for detecting Treponema pallidum in primary syphilis lesions and Borrelia burgdorferi in Lyme disease. Also used for leptospirosis diagnosis.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 0.37 |
| Total RVU | 0.37 |
Est. Medicare Payment
National estimate based on 2026 CMS PFS Conversion Factor ($33.40). Actual payment varies by locality (GPCI adjustment).
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
With a work RVU of 0.37, this code ranks in the 29th percentile among Pathology & Lab codes — 1.8x below the median (0.68). The highest wRVU in this category is 2.78.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 87164?
CPT 87164 (Dark field examination specimen collj) is a Pathology & Lab code. Microscopic examination of specimens using dark field illumination microscopy with collection of sample using direct darkfield visualizations of spirochetes and motile organisms.
Who uses CPT code 87164?
CPT 87164 is used by pathology, microbiology, infectious disease. Primary method for detecting Treponema pallidum in primary syphilis lesions and Borrelia burgdorferi in Lyme disease. Also used for leptospirosis diagnosis.
When is CPT 87164 used?
Primary method for detecting Treponema pallidum in primary syphilis lesions and Borrelia burgdorferi in Lyme disease. Also used for leptospirosis diagnosis.
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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.