CPT® Code 88350

Add-On Code

Immunofluorescence, per specimen; each additional single antibody stain procedure (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure)

The CPT® Code 88350 refers to the procedure of immunofluorescence performed on a specimen, specifically for each additional single antibody stain procedure. This laboratory test is crucial for identifying antibodies within various types of specimens, which may include tissue sections, cultured cell lines, or individual cells. The process utilizes fluorescent staining techniques in conjunction with either an epifluorescence or confocal microscope to visualize the presence of specific antibodies. In the context of primary (direct) immunofluorescence, a single antibody is chemically linked to a fluorophore, allowing it to recognize and bind to the epitope region of the target antigen. Upon binding, the fluorophore emits light at a specific wavelength, which can be detected using the aforementioned microscopy techniques. Alternatively, secondary (indirect) immunofluorescence employs two antibodies: an unlabeled primary antibody that attaches to the target antigen and a labeled secondary antibody that binds to the primary antibody. This method allows for signal amplification, as multiple secondary antibodies can attach to a single primary antibody. It is important to note that while code 88346 is used to report the immunofluorescence for the initial single antibody stain, code 88350 is designated for each additional single antibody staining performed on the specimen.