87166 Dark field examination without collj
Also known as: dark field exam, darkfield microscopy, wet mount dark field, motile organism exam
Microscopic examination of specimens using dark field illumination microscopy without collection collimation for detecting motile organisms and spirochetes.
In Plain Language
microscope test for moving organisms
Clinical Context
Used for detecting motile organisms including spirochetes, particularly in genital or body fluid specimens. Less specific than collimated dark field but more readily available.
RVU Information
CPT 87166 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
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 87166?
CPT 87166 (Dark field examination without collj) is a Pathology & Lab code. Microscopic examination of specimens using dark field illumination microscopy without collection collimation for detecting motile organisms and spirochetes.
Who uses CPT code 87166?
CPT 87166 is used by pathology, microbiology, clinical laboratory. Used for detecting motile organisms including spirochetes, particularly in genital or body fluid specimens. Less specific than collimated dark field but more readily available.
When is CPT 87166 used?
Used for detecting motile organisms including spirochetes, particularly in genital or body fluid specimens. Less specific than collimated dark field but more readily available.
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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.