CPT code 88187 represents the clinician interpretation of flow cytometry studies that evaluate two to eight markers. This pathology-focused code covers the professional analysis of flow cytometry data, a critical step in diagnosing hematologic malignancies, immunophenotyping, and other conditions where cell-surface or intracellular marker patterns inform clinical decisions. Nationally, accurate coding for flow cytometry interpretation affects laboratory billing, clinical documentation, and aggregate utilization tracking.

Key payers referenced include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find an overview of coverage considerations and common payer inclusion, benchmarks for use frequency and allowed services where available, and clinical context for when 88187 is applied. The publication outlines typical sites of service, the role of the interpreting clinician, and how this code fits into laboratory workflows.

The report covers benchmarking and payer policy trends relevant to flow cytometry interpretation, practical documentation elements tied to code specificity, and areas where policy updates or coding guidance may influence billing. Data not available in the input is noted within specific sections to clarify gaps in payer-specific rates, associated taxonomies, and ICD-10 pairings.