Find policies, billing codes, payers, states, and providers
CPT 88346: Immunofluorescence Single-Antibody Study
CPT code 88346 represents a single-antibody immunofluorescent study used by pathologists and laboratory analysts to detect autoimmune disorders or infectious agents in tissue or cellular specimens. This targeted diagnostic technique informs clinical management for conditions such as certain immune-mediated diseases and infections where antigen localization within tissue is critical. Nationally, accurate coding for immunofluorescence studies affects laboratory workflow, reimbursement, and appropriate use of specialized pathology services.
Key payers discussed include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. The publication outlines payer coverage patterns, common billing considerations, and the clinical contexts in which 88346 is typically applied.
Readers will learn: benchmarks for utilization of single-antibody immunofluorescence relative to other pathology tests; common site-of-service settings and clinical indications for ordering the study; coding and billing considerations that influence laboratory documentation and claims submission; and relevant policy updates and payer practices that affect coverage and payment. Data not available in the input is noted where applicable.
Customize your policy alerts
Sign up for cpt 88346 policy alerts
Get alerted when payer policies referencing 88346 are released or updated.
Monitor payer policy activity
Billing Code Overview
CPT code 88346 describes an immunofluorescent study using a single antibody stain performed by a pathology or laboratory analyst to detect autoimmune disease or an infectious organism in a tissue or cellular sample. The procedure involves applying a single fluorescent-labeled antibody to a specimen and interpreting the resulting fluorescence pattern to aid diagnosis.
Service type: Immunofluorescence single-antibody staining and interpretation.
Typical site of service: Hospital or independent clinical laboratory, pathology department, or outpatient surgical pathology lab.