CPT® Code 0849T

Add-On Code

Digitization of glass microscope slides for in situ hybridization (eg, FISH), per specimen; each additional single probe stain procedure (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure)

The CPT® Code 0849T refers to the process of digitizing glass microscope slides specifically for in situ hybridization procedures, such as fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). This procedure involves converting physical glass slides into a digital format, allowing for the captured images to be stored either on a local computer server or within a cloud-based archive. The digitization process enhances the ability to examine the slides remotely, enabling pathologists to analyze the images without being physically present in the laboratory. Additionally, this digital format facilitates the use of computer algorithms that can assist in providing pathologic diagnoses, which may offer advantages over traditional direct visualization through a microscope. In situ hybridization is a technique used to detect specific RNA or DNA sequences within tissue samples, and it often involves staining slides of tissue biopsy specimens. The digitization of these slides is crucial for further analysis and interpretation in an increasingly image-based medical environment. When performing this procedure, it is important to note that CPT® Code 0849T is used to report each additional single probe stain procedure, which should be listed separately in addition to the code for the primary procedure. For the initial single probe stain preparation, CPT® Code 0848T is reported, while CPT® Code 0850T is designated for each multiplex probe stain digitization.