Pathology/Lab Coding Alert

Reader Question:

Immunofluorescence Studies Include Preparation

Question: Given a renal biopsy for suspected cyclosporine toxicity following cardiac transplant, we performed two H&E stains, two PASs, two Jones' methenamine silver stains, and two trichromes. We also froze a core from the biopsy in methylbutane to process for direct immunofluorescence studies: IgG, IgA, Igm, Clq and C3. How should we code this? Can we use 88314 to report preparing frozen sections for the immunofluorescence studies? Missouri Subscriber Answer: Report 88305 (Level IV - Surgical pathology, gross and microscopic examination, kidney, biopsy) for the renal biopsy, including the hematoxylon and eosin (H&E) stains. Report the periodic acid schiff (PAS), Jones' methenamine silver and trichrome stains as 3 x +88313 (Special stains [list separately in addition to code for surgical pathology examination]; Group II, all other [e.g., iron, trichrome] except immunocytochemistry and immunoperoxidase stains, each). You should report each immunofluorescent antibody study as 88346 (Immunofluorescent study, each antibody; direct method), meaning that you would report 5 x 88346 for this example. You should not report +88314 (...; histochemical staining with frozen section[s]) for preparing frozen sections for the immunofluorescent studies. Code 88346 includes tissue/slide preparation and examination. Code 88314 describes the preparation and examination of a different (histochemical) staining technique, such as muscle biopsy ATPase or NADH stains. The code describes not just frozen section preparation but the histochemical staining and examination as well.  
You’ve reached your limit of free articles. Already a subscriber? Log in.
Not a subscriber? Subscribe today to continue reading this article. Plus, you’ll get:
  • Simple explanations of current healthcare regulations and payer programs
  • Real-world reporting scenarios solved by our expert coders
  • Industry news, such as MAC and RAC activities, the OIG Work Plan, and CERT reports
  • Instant access to every article ever published in Revenue Cycle Insider
  • 6 annual AAPC-approved CEUs
  • The latest updates for CPT®, ICD-10-CM, HCPCS Level II, NCCI edits, modifiers, compliance, technology, practice management, and more