Summary & Overview
CPT 88342: Immunohistochemistry or Immunocytochemistry, Initial Antibody Stain
CPT code 88342 represents immunohistochemistry or immunocytochemistry procedures, a cornerstone in modern pathology for identifying specific antigens in tissue specimens. This code is widely used in clinical laboratories and pathology departments to support the diagnosis and classification of cancers and other diseases. Nationally, the code is recognized by major payers including Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, Medicare, and UnitedHealthcare, reflecting its broad clinical and reimbursement relevance.
This publication provides a comprehensive overview of 88342, including payer coverage, clinical context, and related coding practices. Readers will gain insight into the procedural scope, typical sites of service, and the importance of immunohistochemical analysis in patient care. The summary also highlights associated modifiers and taxonomies, as well as common ICD-10 diagnoses linked to this code, such as malignant neoplasms of the breast, prostate, lung, colon, and other tissues. Additionally, related CPT codes like 88341 and 88360 are discussed to clarify coding distinctions.
Healthcare professionals, administrators, and policy analysts will find benchmarks, policy updates, and clinical context to inform decision-making and support compliance with payer requirements. The article is structured to deliver key information efficiently, emphasizing the national significance of 88342 in pathology and laboratory medicine.
CPT Code Overview
CPT code 88342 is used to report immunohistochemistry or immunocytochemistry procedures performed on a specimen. This code covers the initial single or multiplex antibody stain, including interpretation and report, as part of pathology and laboratory procedures. The typical site of service for this procedure is a clinical laboratory or pathology department, such as Place of Service 19 or 22. These tests play a critical role in diagnosing and characterizing diseases, particularly various types of neoplasms, by detecting specific antigens in tissue samples.
Clinical & Coding Specifications
Clinical Context
A patient presents with a tissue specimen obtained via biopsy or surgical excision due to suspicion of malignancy, such as a breast mass or prostate lesion. The specimen is sent to the pathology department, where a pathologist performs immunohistochemistry (IHC) using an initial single or multiplex antibody stain to help characterize the nature of the neoplasm. The pathologist interprets the staining results and generates a report to assist in diagnosis, prognosis, or therapeutic decision-making. This procedure is typically performed in a clinical laboratory or pathology department setting.
Coding Specifications
-
Modifiers:
- Modifier
26: Used when reporting only the professional component (interpretation and report) of the procedure. - Modifier
TC: Used when reporting only the technical component (performance of the staining procedure). - Modifier
59: Indicates a distinct procedural service, used when multiple procedures are performed that are not normally reported together. - Modifier
91: Used for repeat clinical diagnostic laboratory tests on the same patient on the same day.
- Modifier
-
Provider Taxonomies: