CPT® Code 0835T | Case2Code

Official Description

Digitization of glass microscope slides for cytopathology, evaluation of fine needle aspirate; immediate cytohistologic study to determine adequacy for diagnosis, first evaluation episode, each site (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure)

Common Language Description

The CPT® Code 0835T refers to the process of digitizing glass microscope slides specifically for cytopathology, particularly in the context of evaluating fine needle aspirate specimens. This procedure involves converting traditional glass slides into a digital format, allowing for the images to be stored either on a local computer server or within a cloud-based archive. The digitization process facilitates further examination of the slides, which can be conducted by remote pathologists or through the use of advanced computer algorithms that assist in providing a pathologic diagnosis. This method of evaluation is distinct from traditional direct visualization through a microscope, as it enables a more versatile approach to pathology diagnostics. The cytopathology slides in question are prepared from fine needle aspirate specimens, and once digitized, they can be utilized for acquiring a pathological diagnosis, complete with interpretation and reporting. The code 0835T is specifically used to report the digitization of slides performed concurrently with an immediate cytohistologic evaluation aimed at determining the adequacy of the specimen for diagnosis. It is important to note that this code is to be reported separately in addition to the primary procedure code, and it is the first evaluation episode for each site. For additional evaluations of the same site, the code 0836T should be used, while the code 0837T is designated for the digitization of slides without immediate evaluation.

1. Indications

The procedure associated with CPT® Code 0835T is indicated for the evaluation of fine needle aspirate specimens in cytopathology. The specific indications for performing this procedure include:

Fine Needle Aspirate Specimens The procedure is utilized when cytopathology slides are prepared from fine needle aspirate specimens, which are often used to obtain tissue samples from various anatomical sites for diagnostic purposes.
Immediate Cytohistologic Evaluation This procedure is indicated when there is a need for an immediate evaluation to determine the adequacy of the specimen for diagnosis, ensuring that the sample collected is sufficient for accurate pathological assessment.

2. Procedure

The procedure for CPT® Code 0835T involves several key steps that ensure the effective digitization and evaluation of cytopathology slides. These steps include:

Preparation of Glass Microscope Slides Initially, glass microscope slides are prepared from fine needle aspirate specimens. This preparation is crucial as it allows for the cellular material obtained from the aspirate to be adequately visualized and assessed under a microscope.
Digitization of Slides Once the slides are prepared, they are then digitized. This process involves scanning the glass slides into a digital format, which can be stored on a local server or in a cloud-based archive. The digitization allows for high-resolution images to be captured, facilitating further analysis.
Immediate Cytohistologic Study Following digitization, an immediate cytohistologic study is conducted. This study is essential for determining the adequacy of the specimen for diagnosis. The pathologist evaluates the digital images to assess whether the cellular material is sufficient for a conclusive diagnosis.
Reporting After the evaluation, a report is generated that includes the findings from the immediate cytohistologic study. This report is critical for guiding further diagnostic and treatment decisions based on the adequacy of the specimen.

3. Post-Procedure

Post-procedure care following the digitization and evaluation of cytopathology slides typically involves monitoring the results of the immediate cytohistologic study. The pathologist may provide feedback on the adequacy of the specimen, which can influence subsequent diagnostic steps or additional procedures if necessary. It is also important to ensure that the digital images and reports are securely stored and accessible for future reference or further analysis. The results from this procedure may lead to additional evaluations or interventions based on the findings, and healthcare providers should communicate the results to the patient and relevant medical teams promptly.

Short Descr	DGTZ GLS MCRSCP FNA 1ST EA
Medium Descr	DGTZ GLASS MCRSCP SLD CYTP FNA IMMT 1ST EPSD EA
Long Descr	Digitization of glass microscope slides for cytopathology, evaluation of fine needle aspirate; immediate cytohistologic study to determine adequacy for diagnosis, first evaluation episode, each site (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	Not applicable/unspecified.

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

88172

Female Edit MPFS Status: Active Code APC Q1 CPT Assistant Article Cytopathology, evaluation of fine needle aspirate; immediate cytohistologic study to determine adequacy for diagnosis, first evaluation episode, each site