CPT^® 88161, Under Cytopathology Screening Procedures

The Current Procedural Terminology (CPT^®) code 88161 as maintained by American Medical Association, is a medical procedural code under the range - Cytopathology Screening Procedures.

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Summary

The lab analyst performs the technical lab test to prepare and analyze a cytopathology smear for screening and interpretation purposes. Specific codes are available for cervical, vaginal, fine needle aspirates, body fluids, washings, etc., and you should use 88161 only if there is no other more specific code available.

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Tzanck smear

My doctor is performing the Tzanck smear in the office and we are trying to figure out how we can bill for the procedure. He is making the smear on the slide, applying the stain, examining the slide ... [ Read More ]

Coding a Pap....

So if we just do a routine pap, collect the smear and send it off to the lab... Would it be apporiate to bill a 88161? I am in between that code and 88150.. Txs for all your help... [ Read More ]

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