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CPT® Code 88262 refers to a specific type of chromosome analysis that involves counting 15-20 cells and analyzing two karyotypes with banding techniques. This procedure is typically performed 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 essential for identifying individual chromosomes, as it produces distinct bands that allow for easier differentiation and examination. One common method of banding is Giemsa banding, which involves a series of steps including acetic acid fixation, air drying, denaturing chromosomes through proteolytic enzymes or other techniques, followed by Giemsa staining. Alternatively, chromosome banding may also be conducted using fluorochrome and Q-banding stains. In the context of CPT® Code 88262, the analysis focuses on identifying any extra, missing, or abnormal positions of chromosome segments. Normal karyotypes are represented by 46 XX for females and 46 XY for males. The analysis of two karyotypes is particularly significant in cases where individuals may exhibit chromosomal abnormalities, as it allows for the identification of cells that may have a normal chromosome count alongside those that display abnormalities. This dual analysis is crucial for understanding the presence of conditions such as mosaicism, where some cells may have a normal chromosome count while others may have an extra chromosome, known as trisomy. The ability to analyze multiple karyotypes enhances the diagnostic capabilities of chromosome analysis, making it a vital tool in the assessment of genetic conditions and abnormalities.
© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.
The procedure associated with CPT® Code 88262 is indicated for the evaluation of chromosomal abnormalities and is performed in the following scenarios:
The procedure for CPT® Code 88262 involves several critical steps to ensure accurate chromosome analysis:
Post-procedure care for patients undergoing chromosome analysis with CPT® Code 88262 typically involves monitoring for any immediate reactions to the sample collection. Patients may be advised to follow up with their healthcare provider to discuss the results of the chromosome analysis. The results can provide critical information regarding genetic conditions, and further genetic counseling may be recommended based on the findings. It is important to note that the extent of any chromosomal abnormalities can vary significantly among individuals, and the implications of these findings should be thoroughly discussed with a qualified healthcare professional.
| Short Descr | CHROMOSOME ANALYSIS 15-20 | Medium Descr | CHRMSM COUNT 15-20 CLL 2KARYOTYP BANDING | Long Descr | Chromosome analysis; count 15-20 cells, 2 karyotypes, 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) |
| 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. | GZ | Item or service expected to be denied as not reasonable and necessary | XU | Unusual non-overlapping service, the use of a service that is distinct because it does not overlap usual components of the main service | 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. | 76 | Repeat procedure or service by same physician or other qualified health care professional: it may be necessary to indicate that a procedure or service was repeated by the same physician or other qualified health care professional subsequent to the original procedure or service. this circumstance may be reported by adding modifier 76 to the repeated procedure or service. note: this modifier should not be appended to an e/m service. | 77 | Repeat procedure by another physician or other qualified health care professional: it may be necessary to indicate that a basic procedure or service was repeated by another physician or other qualified health care professional subsequent to the original procedure or service. this circumstance may be reported by adding modifier 77 to the repeated procedure or service. note: this modifier should not be appended to an e/m service. | 95 | Synchronous telemedicine service rendered via a real-time interactive audio and video telecommunications system: synchronous telemedicine service is defined as a real-time interaction between a physician or other qualified health care professional and a patient who is located at a distant site from the physician or other qualified health care professional. the totality of the communication of information exchanged between the physician or other qualified health care professional and the patient during the course of the synchronous telemedicine service must be of an amount and nature that would be sufficient to meet the key components and/or requirements of the same service when rendered via a face-to-face interaction. modifier 95 may only be appended to the services listed in appendix p. appendix p is the list of cpt codes for services that are typically performed face-to-face, but may be rendered via a real-time (synchronous) interactive audio and video telecommunications system. | GA | Waiver of liability statement issued as required by payer policy, individual case | GC | This service has been performed in part by a resident under the direction of a teaching physician | GW | Service not related to the hospice patient's terminal condition | Q0 | Investigational clinical service provided in a clinical research study that is in an approved clinical research study | Q1 | Routine clinical service provided in a clinical research study that is in an approved clinical research study |
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| 2011-01-01 | Changed | Short description changed. |
| Pre-1990 | Added | Code added. |
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