How To Use CPT Code 88184

CPT 88184 describes the technical component of a flow cytometry procedure using a cell surface, cytoplasmic, or nuclear marker to characterize cells and aid in diagnosing patients with conditions such as cancer or immune dysfunctions. 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 88184?

CPT 88184 can be used to describe the technical component of a flow cytometry procedure performed by a laboratory analyst. This procedure involves using a cell surface, cytoplasmic, or nuclear marker to characterize cells and assist clinicians in diagnosing patients with conditions such as cancer or immune dysfunctions. It is important to note that CPT 88184 only includes the first marker used in the procedure.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 88184 is: ‘Flow cytometry, cell surface, cytoplasmic, or nuclear marker, technical component only; first marker.’

3. Procedure

1. The laboratory analyst performs the technical component of the flow cytometry procedure using specimens such as whole blood, bone marrow, body fluids, fine needle aspirates (FNA), or tissue.
2. The analyst mixes the sample with fluorescently tagged antibodies, known as markers, that attach to specific proteins on the cell surface, cytoplasm, or nucleus.
3. The choice of antibodies used depends on the suspected diagnosis, such as CD33 for acute myeloid leukemia (AML).
4. After an incubation phase, the analyst processes the specimen through a flow cytometer, where the labeled cells pass singly past a laser beam that causes them to fluoresce.
5. The light scatter characteristics of the cells are then analyzed to identify and quantify the specific cell type.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 88184 is used when a flow cytometry procedure is performed to characterize cells and aid in diagnosing conditions such as cancer or immune dysfunctions. The procedure must involve the use of a cell surface, cytoplasmic, or nuclear marker. It is important to note that CPT 88184 only includes the first marker used in the procedure.

5. When to use CPT code 88184

CPT code 88184 should be used when reporting the technical component of a flow cytometry procedure that utilizes a cell surface, cytoplasmic, or nuclear marker. It is important to ensure that only the first marker used in the procedure is reported with this code. If additional markers are used, they should be reported with additional CPT codes.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 88184, the documentation should include:

• The specific suspected diagnosis and the need for the flow cytometry procedure
• The type of specimen used (e.g., whole blood, bone marrow, body fluids)
• The specific marker used (cell surface, cytoplasmic, or nuclear)
• The date and time of the procedure
• The results of the analysis, including the identification and quantification of the specific cell type
• The signature of the laboratory analyst performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 88184, it is important to ensure that the procedure performed meets the criteria for this code. The technical component of the flow cytometry procedure should involve the use of a cell surface, cytoplasmic, or nuclear marker. It is also important to report only the first marker used in the procedure with CPT 88184. If additional markers are used, they should be reported with additional CPT codes. Additionally, consider any specific billing guidelines provided by payers or coding guidelines.

8. Historical information

CPT 88184 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2005. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A laboratory analyst performing the technical component of a flow cytometry procedure using a cell surface marker to characterize cells and aid in diagnosing a patient with suspected lymphoma.
2. A flow cytometry procedure performed by a laboratory analyst using a cytoplasmic marker to identify specific cell types in a patient with suspected leukemia.
3. A technical component of a flow cytometry procedure performed by a laboratory analyst using a nuclear marker to assist in diagnosing a patient with suspected immune dysfunction.
4. A flow cytometry procedure performed by a laboratory analyst using a cell surface marker to differentiate between different types of lymphocytes in a patient with suspected autoimmune disease.
5. A laboratory analyst performing the technical component of a flow cytometry procedure using a cytoplasmic marker to identify specific cell populations in a patient with suspected multiple myeloma.
6. A flow cytometry procedure performed by a laboratory analyst using a nuclear marker to aid in diagnosing a patient with suspected lymphoproliferative disorder.
7. A technical component of a flow cytometry procedure performed by a laboratory analyst using a cell surface marker to characterize cells and assist in diagnosing a patient with suspected immunodeficiency.
8. A flow cytometry procedure performed by a laboratory analyst using a cytoplasmic marker to identify specific cell types in a patient with suspected myelodysplastic syndrome.
9. A laboratory analyst performing the technical component of a flow cytometry procedure using a nuclear marker to assist in diagnosing a patient with suspected primary immunodeficiency.
10. A flow cytometry procedure performed by a laboratory analyst using a cell surface marker to differentiate between different types of lymphocytes in a patient with suspected lymphoproliferative disorder.