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Cytopathology smears, specifically for cervical or vaginal specimens, are critical diagnostic tests used to identify cellular changes that may indicate the presence of disease. This examination is particularly important for detecting conditions such as cervical dysplasia and in situ carcinoma, which can progress to invasive malignancies if not monitored and treated appropriately. Commonly known as a Papanicolaou (PAP) smear, this procedure involves the collection of cells from the endocervix using specialized tools like a brush or stick. Once collected, the specimen is prepared on a slide and coverslipped for analysis. The innovative aspect of CPT® Code 88147 is the use of an automated screening system, which operates under the supervision of a physician. This system employs advanced technology, including an automated microscope, a full-color camera, and high-speed image-processing capabilities, to screen the slides for any abnormalities in the cell structure. The automated system identifies and marks abnormal cells or clusters, storing these images for further evaluation. Following this automated screening, a technician reviews the results under the supervision of a physician, ensuring that any potential issues are accurately assessed. This process is essential for timely diagnosis and intervention, as abnormal findings may lead to recommendations for additional testing or more frequent monitoring of the patient's condition.
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The procedure associated with CPT® Code 88147 is indicated for the following conditions:
The procedure for CPT® Code 88147 involves several key steps that ensure accurate screening of cervical or vaginal cytopathology specimens:
After the procedure associated with CPT® Code 88147, the findings from the cytopathology smear are communicated to the treating physician. If any abnormalities are detected, the pathologist may recommend further actions, such as scheduling another PAP smear at a shorter interval than usual or conducting additional diagnostic tests, including colposcopy, endocervical curettage, or biopsy. These follow-up measures are essential for ensuring that any potential issues are addressed promptly and effectively, thereby supporting the patient's ongoing health and well-being.
| Short Descr | CYTOPATH C/V AUTOMATED | Medium Descr | CYTP SMRS C/V SCR AUTOMATED SYSTEM PHYS SUPV | Long Descr | Cytopathology smears, cervical or vaginal; screening by automated system under physician supervision | Status Code | Statutory Exclusion (from MPFS, may be paid under other methodologies) | Global Days | XXX - Global Concept Does Not Apply | PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) | 9 - Not Applicable | Multiple Procedures (51) | 9 - Concept does not apply. | Bilateral Surgery (50) | 9 - Concept does not apply. | Physician Supervisions | 09 - Concept does not apply. | Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) | 9 - Concept does not apply. | Co-Surgeons (62) | 9 - Concept does not apply. | Team Surgery (66) | 9 - Concept does not apply. | Diagnostic Imaging Family | 99 - Concept Does Not Apply | CLIA Waived (QW) | No | APC Status Indicator | Conditionally packaged laboratory tests | Type of Service (TOS) | 5 - Diagnostic Laboratory | Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) | T1H - Lab tests - other (non-Medicare fee schedule) | MUE | 1 | CCS Clinical Classification | 234 - Pathology |
This is a primary code that can be used with these additional add-on codes.
| 88155 | Female Edit Addon Code MPFS Status: Statutory exclusion (from MPFS, may be paid under other methodologies) APC Q4 PUB 100 CPT Assistant Article Cytopathology, slides, cervical or vaginal, definitive hormonal evaluation (eg, maturation index, karyopyknotic index, estrogenic index) (List separately in addition to code[s] for other technical and interpretation services) |
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| 2011-01-01 | Changed | Short description changed. |
| 1999-01-01 | Added | First appearance in code book in 1999. |
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