87207 Smear special stain
Also known as: special stain, special staining, specialty stain, non-routine stain
Microscopic examination of stained smears using special staining techniques other than gram or acid-fast stains to visualize specific organism types or components.
In Plain Language
special microscope staining test
Clinical Context
Used for organisms not visualized by standard stains including fungi, spirochetes, and parasites. Includes PAS, methylene blue, silver, and other specialty stains.
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 87207?
CPT 87207 (Smear special stain) is a Pathology & Lab code. Microscopic examination of stained smears using special staining techniques other than gram or acid-fast stains to visualize specific organism types or components.
Who uses CPT code 87207?
CPT 87207 is used by pathology, microbiology, clinical laboratory. Used for organisms not visualized by standard stains including fungi, spirochetes, and parasites. Includes PAS, methylene blue, silver, and other specialty stains.
When is CPT 87207 used?
Used for organisms not visualized by standard stains including fungi, spirochetes, and parasites. Includes PAS, methylene blue, silver, and other specialty stains.
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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.