CPT® Code 88344

Immunohistochemistry or immunocytochemistry is a laboratory technique used to identify specific antigens in cells within a specimen, such as tissue blocks, brushed cell samples, blood smears, or fine needle biopsies (FNB). This process involves the application of antibodies that are specifically designed to bind to the target antigens present in the cells. The specimen is meticulously prepared for histological or cytological examination by placing it on a glass slide that has been fixed with a commercially available antibody. Following this, enzymes and/or special stains are applied to the slide, which facilitate the visualization of the antigen-antibody interactions. The resulting characteristic changes observed in the cells can provide critical information regarding the antigenic profile of morphologically undifferentiated cells, thereby assisting in the diagnosis of malignant neoplasms. This technique allows for the identification of either a single antibody or multiple antibodies on the same slide. For coding purposes, it is important to note that CPT® code 88342 is designated for the first identifiable single antibody per slide/stain procedure, while CPT® code 88341 is used for each additional single antibody. CPT® code 88344 is specifically utilized when multiple separately identifiable antibodies are applied to the same slide/stain specimen.