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CPT® Code 88261 refers to a specific procedure known as chromosome analysis, which involves counting five cells and performing one karyotype analysis with banding. This procedure is typically conducted using samples obtained from peripheral blood lymphocytes, skin, or solid tissue, which must be cultured in a separately reportable procedure prior to analysis. Karyotyping is a critical evaluation method that assesses the size, shape, and number of chromosomes present in the cell samples. The banding technique utilized in this analysis is a chromosome staining method that allows for the identification of individual chromosomes by producing distinct bands. One common method of banding is Giemsa banding, which is a complex process that includes several steps: fixation of the cells using acetic acid, air drying, denaturing the chromosomes through proteolytic enzymes or alternative techniques, and finally applying Giemsa stain. Additionally, chromosome banding can also be performed using fluorochrome and Q-banding stains. This analysis is essential for identifying any extra, missing, or abnormal positions of chromosome segments. In normal human karyotypes, females typically present with 46 XX and males with 46 XY. The procedure is part of a broader range of chromosome analysis codes, including 88262, 88263, and 88264, which involve varying numbers of cells and karyotype analyses, each serving specific diagnostic purposes related to chromosomal abnormalities and conditions such as mosaicism.
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The procedure associated with CPT® Code 88261 is indicated for the evaluation of chromosomal abnormalities that may be present in a patient. The following conditions or symptoms may warrant this chromosome analysis:
The procedure for CPT® Code 88261 involves several key steps that ensure accurate chromosome analysis. The first step is the collection of a sample, which can be obtained from peripheral blood lymphocytes, skin, or solid tissue. This sample must then be cultured in a separately reportable procedure to allow for the growth of the cells necessary for analysis. Once the cells are adequately cultured, five cells are identified for analysis. The next step involves performing a single karyotype analysis with banding. This karyotyping process includes the evaluation of the size, shape, and number of chromosomes in the selected cells. The banding technique, such as Giemsa banding, is applied to the chromosomes to produce characteristic bands that facilitate the identification of individual chromosomes. This step is crucial for detecting any abnormalities, such as extra or missing chromosome segments. The results of this analysis provide valuable information regarding the chromosomal composition of the cells, which can aid in diagnosing various genetic conditions.
After the chromosome analysis procedure is completed, the results are typically reviewed and interpreted by a qualified geneticist or pathologist. The findings from the karyotype analysis can provide critical insights into the patient's genetic makeup and any potential chromosomal abnormalities. Patients may be advised to follow up with their healthcare provider to discuss the results and any further testing or interventions that may be necessary based on the findings. It is important to note that the interpretation of the results may require additional clinical context, and further genetic counseling may be recommended to help patients understand the implications of the findings for their health and that of their family members.
| Short Descr | CHROMOSOME ANALYSIS 5 | Medium Descr | CHRMSM COUNT 5 CELL 1KARYOTYPE BANDING | Long Descr | Chromosome analysis; count 5 cells, 1 karyotype, with banding | Status Code | Statutory Exclusion (from MPFS, may be paid under other methodologies) | Global Days | XXX - Global Concept Does Not Apply | PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) | 9 - Not Applicable | Multiple Procedures (51) | 9 - Concept does not apply. | Bilateral Surgery (50) | 9 - Concept does not apply. | Physician Supervisions | 09 - Concept does not apply. | Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) | 9 - Concept does not apply. | Co-Surgeons (62) | 9 - Concept does not apply. | Team Surgery (66) | 9 - Concept does not apply. | Diagnostic Imaging Family | 99 - Concept Does Not Apply | CLIA Waived (QW) | No | APC Status Indicator | Conditionally packaged laboratory tests | Type of Service (TOS) | 5 - Diagnostic Laboratory | Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) | T1H - Lab tests - other (non-Medicare fee schedule) | MUE | 2 | CCS Clinical Classification | 206 - Microscopic examination (bacterial smear, culture, toxicology) |
| XU | Unusual non-overlapping service, the use of a service that is distinct because it does not overlap usual components of the main service | 26 | Professional component: certain procedures are a combination of a physician or other qualified health care professional component and a technical component. when the physician or other qualified health care professional component is reported separately, the service may be identified by adding modifier 26 to the usual procedure number. | 59 | Distinct procedural service: under certain circumstances, it may be necessary to indicate that a procedure or service was distinct or independent from other non-e/m services performed on the same day. modifier 59 is used to identify procedures/services, other than e/m services, that are not normally reported together, but are appropriate under the circumstances. documentation must support a different session, different procedure or surgery, different site or organ system, separate incision/excision, separate lesion, or separate injury (or area of injury in extensive injuries) not ordinarily encountered or performed on the same day by the same individual. however, when another already established modifier is appropriate it should be used rather than modifier 59. only if no more descriptive modifier is available, and the use of modifier 59 best explains the circumstances, should modifier 59 be used. note: modifier 59 should not be appended to an e/m service. to report a separate and distinct e/m service with a non-e/m service performed on the same date, see modifier 25. | 90 | Reference (outside) laboratory: when laboratory procedures are performed by a party other than the treating or reporting physician or other qualified health care professional, the procedure may be identified by adding modifier 90 to the usual procedure number. | GC | This service has been performed in part by a resident under the direction of a teaching physician | GZ | Item or service expected to be denied as not reasonable and necessary | Q1 | Routine clinical service provided in a clinical research study that is in an approved clinical research study |
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| 2013-01-01 | Changed | Medium Descriptor changed. |
| 2011-01-01 | Changed | Short description changed. |
| Pre-1990 | Added | Code added. |
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