How To Use CPT Code 88174

CPT 88174 describes the analysis of cervical or vaginal cytopathology specimens collected in preservative fluid using automated thin layer preparation and screening by an automated system under physician supervision. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 88174?

CPT 88174 can be used to describe the analysis of cervical or vaginal cytopathology specimens collected in preservative fluid. This code specifically refers to the use of automated thin layer preparation and screening by an automated system under the supervision of a physician. The test is performed by a lab analyst to examine the cells and diagnose any potential diseases or abnormalities.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 88174 is: ‘Cytopathology, cervical or vaginal (any reporting system), collected in preservative fluid, automated thin layer preparation; screening by automated system, under physician supervision.’

3. Procedure

1. The clinician collects a cervical or vaginal cytopathology specimen from the patient and places it in a preservative fluid.
2. The lab analyst prepares the specimen using automated thin layer preparation, which involves carving a very thin layer from the specimen and placing it on a slide for microscopic analysis.
3. The slide is then placed in an automated system that performs the screening, examining the cells for any abnormalities or signs of disease.
4. The screening is conducted under the supervision of a physician, who oversees the entire process.
5. The lab may perform additional tests or stains on the slide to aid in the analysis and diagnosis.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 88174 is used for cervical or vaginal cytopathology specimens collected in preservative fluid. This test is typically ordered as part of routine screenings, annual exams, or for patients with a family history of cervical cancer. It may also be ordered for patients experiencing pain or discharge from the vagina. The analysis is performed by a lab analyst under the supervision of a physician.

5. When to use CPT code 88174

CPT code 88174 should be used when analyzing cervical or vaginal cytopathology specimens collected in preservative fluid using automated thin layer preparation and screening by an automated system. It is important to ensure that the test meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description, including the use of preservative fluid, automated thin layer preparation, and screening by an automated system under physician supervision.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 88174, the documentation should include:

• Information about the patient, including their diagnosis or reason for the test
• Details about the specimen collection and preservation method
• Documentation of the automated thin layer preparation process
• Information about the screening performed by the automated system
• Supervision by a physician throughout the entire process
• Any additional tests or stains performed on the slide

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 88174, it is important to ensure that the test meets all the specific criteria outlined in the code description. The test should involve the analysis of cervical or vaginal cytopathology specimens collected in preservative fluid using automated thin layer preparation and screening by an automated system under physician supervision. It is also important to follow any additional guidelines or requirements set by the payer.

8. Historical information

CPT 88174 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2003. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A clinician collects a cervical cytopathology specimen from a patient during their annual exam. The specimen is placed in preservative fluid, and the lab analyst performs automated thin layer preparation and screening using an automated system under physician supervision.
2. A patient with a family history of cervical cancer undergoes a routine screening. The clinician collects a vaginal cytopathology specimen, which is then analyzed using automated thin layer preparation and screening by an automated system under physician supervision.
3. A patient presents with symptoms of pain and discharge from the vagina. The clinician collects a cervical cytopathology specimen, and the lab analyst performs automated thin layer preparation and screening using an automated system under physician supervision to diagnose any potential abnormalities.
4. As part of a follow-up exam, a clinician collects a vaginal cytopathology specimen from a patient. The specimen is analyzed using automated thin layer preparation and screening by an automated system under physician supervision to monitor any changes or abnormalities.
5. A patient undergoes a routine screening for cervical cancer. The clinician collects a cervical cytopathology specimen, which is then analyzed using automated thin layer preparation and screening by an automated system under physician supervision to ensure early detection of any potential abnormalities.
6. A patient presents with symptoms of abnormal bleeding. The clinician collects a vaginal cytopathology specimen, and the lab analyst performs automated thin layer preparation and screening using an automated system under physician supervision to diagnose the underlying cause of the symptoms.
7. During a routine check-up, a clinician collects a cervical cytopathology specimen from a patient. The specimen is analyzed using automated thin layer preparation and screening by an automated system under physician supervision to ensure early detection of any potential abnormalities or signs of disease.