CPT® Code 0761T | Case2Code

Official Description

Digitization of glass microscope slides for immunohistochemistry or immunocytochemistry, per specimen, each additional single antibody stain procedure (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure)

Common Language Description

The CPT® Code 0761T refers to the process of digitizing glass microscope slides specifically for the purpose of immunohistochemistry or immunocytochemistry. This procedure involves converting traditional glass slides into a digital format, allowing for the captured images to be stored either on a local computer server or within a cloud-based archive. The digitization of these slides facilitates further examination by pathologists who may be located remotely, as well as the use of advanced computer algorithms that assist in providing a pathologic diagnosis. This process is particularly significant in the context of cancer diagnosis, as it enables the identification and classification of various types of cancers based on the expression of specific tumor antigens. During the procedure, after the special stain slides are prepared, they are scanned into a digital slide imaging system. The antibody stains used in immunohistochemistry or immunocytochemistry are essential for detecting certain markers in tissue samples or cultured cells. These markers play a crucial role in diagnosing and classifying cancers. It is important to note that CPT® Code 0761T is utilized for each additional single antibody stain procedure that is performed after the primary procedure, which is coded under CPT® Code 0760T. This distinction is vital for accurate coding and billing, as it separates the additional digitization of slides from the initial procedure, ensuring that each step in the diagnostic process is appropriately documented and reimbursed.

1. Indications

The procedure associated with CPT® Code 0761T is indicated for the following:

Immunohistochemistry This technique is used to detect specific antigens in tissue samples, which is crucial for diagnosing various types of cancers.
Immunocytochemistry This method is employed to identify specific markers in cultured cells, aiding in the classification and diagnosis of cancerous conditions.
Pathological Diagnosis The digitization of slides allows for enhanced examination and interpretation of pathological findings, particularly when remote consultation is necessary.

2. Procedure

The procedure for CPT® Code 0761T involves several key steps that ensure the effective digitization of glass microscope slides:

Preparation of Special Stain Slides Initially, the glass microscope slides are prepared with special stains that are necessary for immunohistochemistry or immunocytochemistry. This preparation is critical as it allows for the visualization of specific antigens within the tissue or cultured cells.
Scanning of Slides Once the slides are prepared, they are scanned into a digital slide imaging system. This scanning process converts the physical slides into a digital format, capturing high-resolution images that can be stored and accessed electronically.
Storage of Digital Images The digitized images are then stored on a local computer server or within a cloud-based archive. This storage solution enables easy access for pathologists and facilitates remote consultations and analyses.
Application of Additional Antibody Stains If additional antibody stain procedures are required, each of these is performed separately, and the digitization of these additional slides is coded under CPT® Code 0761T. This ensures that each procedure is accurately documented and billed.

3. Post-Procedure

After the digitization process is complete, the expected post-procedure care includes ensuring that the digital images are properly stored and accessible for further examination. Pathologists may review the digitized slides remotely, utilizing advanced imaging software to analyze the captured data. It is essential to maintain the integrity of the digital files for future reference and to support ongoing diagnostic processes. Additionally, any findings from the digitized slides should be documented thoroughly, as they contribute to the overall pathological diagnosis and treatment planning.

Short Descr	DGTZ GLS MCRSCP SL IMM EA 1
Medium Descr	DGTZ GLASS MCRSCP SLD IMHCHEM/IMCYTCHM EA ADDL 1
Long Descr	Digitization of glass microscope slides for immunohistochemistry or immunocytochemistry, per specimen, each additional single antibody stain procedure (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure)
Status Code	Carriers Price the Code
Global Days	ZZZ - Code Related to Another Service
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC)	3 - Technical Component Only Code
Multiple Procedures (51)	0 - No payment adjustment rules for multiple procedures apply.
Bilateral Surgery (50)	0 - 150% payment adjustment for bilateral procedures does NOT apply.
Physician Supervisions	09 - Concept does not apply.
Assistant Surgeon (80, 82)	0 - Payment restriction for assistants at surgery applies to this procedure...
Co-Surgeons (62)	0 - Co-surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Team Surgery (66)	0 - Team surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Diagnostic Imaging Family	99 - Concept Does Not Apply
APC Status Indicator	Items and Services Packaged into APC Rates
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS)	none
MUE	13

This is an add-on code that must be used in conjunction with one of these primary codes.

88341

Addon Code Resequenced Code MPFS Status: Active Code APC N Immunohistochemistry or immunocytochemistry, per specimen; each additional single antibody stain procedure (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure)

59	Distinct procedural service: under certain circumstances, it may be necessary to indicate that a procedure or service was distinct or independent from other non-e/m services performed on the same day. modifier 59 is used to identify procedures/services, other than e/m services, that are not normally reported together, but are appropriate under the circumstances. documentation must support a different session, different procedure or surgery, different site or organ system, separate incision/excision, separate lesion, or separate injury (or area of injury in extensive injuries) not ordinarily encountered or performed on the same day by the same individual. however, when another already established modifier is appropriate it should be used rather than modifier 59. only if no more descriptive modifier is available, and the use of modifier 59 best explains the circumstances, should modifier 59 be used. note: modifier 59 should not be appended to an e/m service. to report a separate and distinct e/m service with a non-e/m service performed on the same date, see modifier 25.
Q6	Service furnished under a fee-for-time compensation arrangement by a substitute physician or by a substitute physical therapist furnishing outpatient physical therapy services in a health professional shortage area, a medically underserved area, or a rural area
XU	Unusual non-overlapping service, the use of a service that is distinct because it does not overlap usual components of the main service
76	Repeat procedure or service by same physician or other qualified health care professional: it may be necessary to indicate that a procedure or service was repeated by the same physician or other qualified health care professional subsequent to the original procedure or service. this circumstance may be reported by adding modifier 76 to the repeated procedure or service. note: this modifier should not be appended to an e/m service.
XS	Separate structure, a service that is distinct because it was performed on a separate organ/structure