Overview
CPT® Code 86580 is used to report the tuberculosis (TB) skin test, also known as the Mantoux test, administered via intradermal injection. This test is used to screen for exposure to Mycobacterium tuberculosis by evaluating the body’s immune response to purified protein derivative (PPD).
The test involves placing a small amount of PPD just under the skin, typically on the forearm, followed by an in-person reading 48–72 hours later to assess induration. CPT 86580 represents the administration of the test, while the interpretation may be included depending on payer policy.
Key Facts About CPT® 86580
- Service type: Diagnostic skin test
- Provider type: Physicians and qualified healthcare professionals
- Medical services included: Intradermal tuberculosis skin test
- Specimen type: N/A (in vivo skin test)
- Common clinical indications:
- Screening for latent or active tuberculosis
- Employment or occupational health requirements
- School, healthcare, or institutional screening
- Evaluation of patients at increased TB risk
- Public health or immigration-related testing
When to Use CPT® 86580
CPT 86580 is appropriate when:
- A tuberculin skin test is administered intradermally
- The test is performed for screening or diagnostic purposes
- The service is medically necessary or required by regulation
- The patient returns for test reading within 48–72 hours
Examples:
- Pre-employment TB screening for healthcare workers
- Annual TB testing for high-risk populations
- Screening prior to immunosuppressive therapy
- Public health–mandated tuberculosis testing
Documentation Requirements
To properly support CPT 86580 billing, documentation should include:
- Patient identifiers and date of test placement
- Confirmation of intradermal PPD administration
- Injection site and dosage
- Date and time of test reading
- Measurement of induration (in millimeters)
- Interpretation and follow-up recommendations
Accurate documentation is essential for public health compliance, audit readiness, and continuity of care.
Reimbursement and Coding Considerations
- CPT 86580 is generally covered by Medicare, Medicaid, and commercial payers when medically necessary or mandated
- Some payers may bundle test placement and interpretation
- Supplies or vaccine product codes may be billed separately when applicable
- Occupational or screening-related coverage varies by payer
- Always verify payer-specific policies for TB testing
How OptiMantra Supports TB Testing and Preventive Care
OptiMantra’s integrated EMR and practice management system simplifies documentation and billing for CPT 86580 services.
With OptiMantra, providers can:
- Document TB skin test placement and reading in structured templates
- Track test results and compliance across patient populations
- Schedule and remind patients to return for test interpretation
- Maintain clean, audit-ready billing documentation
- Integrate TB screening results into preventive and occupational health records
By centralizing preventive testing workflows, OptiMantra helps practices deliver compliant, efficient TB screening services.
Try OptiMantra for free here!
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