CPT® Code 88343

Deleted

Immunohistochemistry or immunocytochemistry, each separately identifiable antibody per block, cytologic preparation, or hematologic smear; each additional separately identifiable antibody per slide (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure)

Immunohistochemistry or immunocytochemistry is a laboratory technique used to identify specific antigens in cells or tissue samples by utilizing antibodies that are tailored to bind to those antigens. This process is crucial in the examination of cells found in tissue blocks, residual tissue fluid, or fine needle biopsies (FNB). The procedure involves preparing a tissue smear or sample on a glass slide, which is then fixed with a commercially available antibody. Following this, enzymes and/or special stains are applied to the slide, which enhances the visibility of the antigen-antibody reaction. The resulting characteristic changes observed in the cells can provide valuable information regarding the antigenic profile of morphologically undifferentiated cells, thereby assisting in the diagnosis of malignant neoplasms, commonly known as cancer. In this context, the coding for immunohistochemistry is structured such that CPT® Code 88342 is used for the first identifiable antibody per slide, while CPT® Code 88343 is designated for each additional separately identifiable antibody per slide, allowing for precise billing and documentation of the procedure performed.