How To Use CPT Code 88262

CPT 88262 describes the process of chromosome analysis, which involves examining a person’s genetic material for abnormalities. This article will cover the official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 88262?

CPT 88262 can be used to report the analysis of chromosomes in a patient’s genetic material. This code specifically counts 15 to 20 cells and creates two karyotypes with banding, which are pictures of the chromosomes. The purpose of this test is to identify any abnormalities in the chromosomes that may be indicative of genetic disorders or conditions.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 88262 is: ‘Chromosome analysis; count 15-20 cells, 2 karyotypes, with banding.’

3. Procedure

1. The analyst collects a sample, such as whole blood, bone marrow, or tissue culture, from the patient.
2. The sample is processed to obtain actively dividing cells with observable chromosomes.
3. The analyst prepares slides with the cells and applies special stains to reveal the chromosomes.
4. Banding patterns are observed, which help identify individual chromosomes.
5. The analyst counts 15 to 20 cells and arranges the chromosomes from one to 23.
6. Two karyotypes are created, which provide visual representations of the number and appearance of the chromosomes.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 88262 is typically ordered by healthcare providers to diagnose genetic abnormalities or conditions. It is not limited to testing for a specific condition but is commonly used to identify disorders such as Down syndrome or Edwards syndrome. The test requires the analysis of 15 to 20 cells and the creation of two karyotypes with banding.

5. When to use CPT code 88262

CPT code 88262 should be used when a healthcare professional performs chromosome analysis on a patient’s genetic material, counting 15 to 20 cells and creating two karyotypes with banding. It is important to note that this code is specific to the analysis of a limited number of cells and the creation of two karyotypes.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 88262, the healthcare professional must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis or reason for ordering the chromosome analysis
• Type of sample collected (e.g., whole blood, bone marrow, tissue culture)
• Date of the analysis
• Number of cells counted and the result of the analysis
• Details of the created karyotypes, including any observed abnormalities
• Signature of the healthcare professional performing the analysis

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 88262, ensure that the analysis includes the count of 15 to 20 cells and the creation of two karyotypes with banding. It is important to report additional cells counted using a separate code, such as CPT 88285. However, CPT 88285 does not specify the number of additional cells, so it should be reported once per study regardless of the number of additional cells. Take note of any specific guidelines provided by payers regarding the reporting of CPT 88262.

8. Historical information

CPT 88262 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A geneticist performing chromosome analysis on a patient’s blood sample, counting 15 cells and creating two karyotypes with banding.
2. A hematologist analyzing bone marrow cells, counting 20 cells, and generating two karyotypes to evaluate for chromosomal abnormalities.
3. A pathologist examining tissue culture cells, counting 18 cells, and producing two karyotypes to assess genetic variations.
4. A pediatrician ordering chromosome analysis on a newborn with suspected genetic disorders, counting 17 cells, and creating two karyotypes for diagnostic purposes.
5. A reproductive endocrinologist performing chromosome analysis on gametes, counting 16 cells, and generating two karyotypes to assess fertility-related genetic conditions.
6. A genetic counselor analyzing tissue samples, counting 19 cells, and producing two karyotypes to identify potential chromosomal abnormalities.
7. An oncologist ordering chromosome analysis on tumor cells, counting 15 cells, and creating two karyotypes to evaluate genetic mutations associated with cancer.
8. A prenatal specialist performing chromosome analysis on amniotic fluid cells, counting 20 cells, and generating two karyotypes to screen for fetal chromosomal abnormalities.
9. A clinical geneticist analyzing tissue samples from a patient with developmental delays, counting 18 cells, and producing two karyotypes to identify potential genetic causes.
10. A cytogenetic technologist performing chromosome analysis on a patient’s blood sample, counting 19 cells, and creating two karyotypes to assist in the diagnosis of genetic disorders.