CPT® Code 88140

The CPT® Code 88140 refers to the procedure of sex chromatin identification through the examination of a peripheral blood smear, specifically focusing on polymorphonuclear drumsticks. This procedure is utilized to determine the presence of X-chromosomes in leukocyte nuclei, which is significant in identifying the chromosomal sex of an individual. In this context, a peripheral blood sample is collected, and an X-chromosome-specific nucleic acid probe is employed to facilitate the identification of X-chromosomes. The process involves in situ hybridization, where the specimen is treated to allow for the visualization of specific chromatin structures. The examination of the smear reveals drumstick-like structures in the polymorphonuclear leukocytes, which are indicative of the female sex, as these structures are present only in females. This procedure is essential for genetic and chromosomal analysis, providing critical information regarding the sex chromosome composition in the sampled blood cells.