CPT® Code 0853T

Add-On Code

Digitization of glass microscope slides for morphometric analysis, in situ hybridization (quantitative or semiquantitative), manual, per specimen; each multiplex probe stain procedure (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure)

The CPT® Code 0853T refers to the process of digitizing glass microscope slides specifically for morphometric analysis and in situ hybridization, which can be either quantitative or semi-quantitative. This procedure is performed manually for each specimen and is particularly relevant in the context of pathology and genetic analysis. The digitization process involves scanning glass microscope slides to convert them into a digital format, allowing the captured images to be stored either on a local computer server or in a cloud-based archive. This digital transformation facilitates further examination by remote pathologists or the application of computer algorithms, which can assist in providing pathologic diagnoses that differ from traditional direct visualization through a microscope. The information obtained from this digitization can be managed and interpreted within an increasingly sophisticated image-based environment. Morphometric analysis, which is a key component of this procedure, utilizes in situ hybridization techniques that employ fluorescent tagging to visualize specific genes or portions of genes. The manual preparation of glass slides, such as those derived from bone marrow or tumor samples, is essential for accurate analysis. During this process, additional slide digitization occurs simultaneously. It is important to note that for billing purposes, different codes are designated for various types of slide digitization: CPT® Code 0851T is used for the initial single probe stain preparation, CPT® Code 0852T is for each additional single probe stain, and CPT® Code 0853T is specifically for each multiplex probe stain digitization.