AMA CPT® Assistant - 1999 Issue 3 (March)
Pathology and Laboratory, 88271-88275 (Q&A) (March 1999)
March 1999 page 10b Coding Consultation Pathology and Laboratory, 88271-88275 (Q&A) Question We perform both Interphase (eg, FISH) and Metaphase FISH studies. How should we code for these tests? AMA Comment In CPT 1999 codes two new codes (88271-88275) were added to accurately report fluorescence in situ hybridization, (FISH). Interphase FISH is reported using either code 88274, Molecular cytogenetics; interphase in situ hybridization, analyze 25-99 cells, or 88275, Molecular cytogenetics; interphase in situ hybridization, analyze 100-300 cells, depending on the number of cells analyzed. Metaphase FISH is reported using either code 88272, Molecular cytogenetics; chromosomal in situ hybridization...
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Article Overview
This March 1999 CPT Assistant Q&A discusses fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) reporting in pathology and laboratory coding. It explains the general scope of the 1999 CPT additions for molecular cytogenetics, compares earlier reporting approaches with the newer code family, and addresses how the article frames reporting for different FISH study types. The piece is relevant to coders, pathology/laboratory staff, and compliance professionals who work with cytogenetics and molecular diagnostics.
Why This Topic Matters
The article provides historical CPT guidance for a specialized laboratory testing area where accurate code selection and reporting structure affect claim accuracy, documentation alignment, and consistent interpretation of the code family.
Article Sections
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March 1999 page 10b
Identifies the publication context for the coding consultation and its placement within CPT Assistant.
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Coding Consultation
Introduces the Q&A format and the laboratory coding topic addressed in the article.
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Question
Presents a question about reporting fluorescence in situ hybridization studies in a laboratory setting.
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AMA Comment
Summarizes the editorial response discussing the CPT 1999 molecular cytogenetics additions and how the related services are categorized.
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Question
Presents a follow-up question about how one code in the family is structured relative to the others and how multiple probes relate to reporting.
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AMA Comment
Summarizes the editorial response explaining the reporting framework for the code family and the earlier pre-1999 approach referenced in the article.
What You Will Learn
- The general CPT context for fluorescence in situ hybridization reporting.
- How the article frames the relationship among newer molecular cytogenetics services.
- How the article contrasts prior reporting approaches with the CPT 1999 code family.
- How the Q&A addresses reporting structure at a broad level for laboratory cytogenetics services.
Who Should Read This
- Medical coders
- Pathology and laboratory coders
- Cytogenetics laboratory staff
- Compliance professionals
- Revenue cycle staff
Codes Discussed
Code Ranges Discussed
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