2025 CPT code 88185
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Laboratory - Cytopathology Procedures Pathology and Laboratory Procedures Feed
This add-on code reports the technical component of flow cytometry for additional markers after the initial marker reported with code 88184.
Modifiers may apply depending on the specific circumstances of the service. Consult the CPT manual and payer guidelines for specific modifier rules.
Flow cytometry is medically necessary when there is a clinical indication for the assessment of specific cell populations, particularly in cases of suspected hematologic malignancies, immune disorders, or for monitoring treatment response.The specific markers used must be supported by the clinical presentation and the ordering physician's rationale.
The clinical responsibility lies with the laboratory analyst who performs the technical component of the flow cytometry procedure. The ordering physician is responsible for medical decision-making based on the results.
- Pathology and Laboratory Procedures
- Pathology and Laboratory Procedures > Cytopathology Procedures
In simple words: This lab test uses special dyes to identify different types of cells in a blood or tissue sample. It helps doctors diagnose diseases like some cancers. This code is only used if other similar tests have already been done.
This CPT code, 88185, represents the technical component of a flow cytometry procedure.It's an add-on code used to report additional markers beyond the initial marker(s) reported with code 88184.The procedure involves using cell surface, cytoplasmic, or nuclear markers to characterize cells, aiding in diagnosing conditions such as various cancers and immune dysfunctions.The laboratory analyst performs the test using specimens like whole blood, bone marrow, body fluids, fine needle aspirates (FNA), or tissue.Fluorescently tagged antibodies (markers) bind to specific cell proteins, and a flow cytometer analyzes the fluorescence to identify and quantify cell types.This code is only reimbursable when used in conjunction with a primary code for the initial marker (88184).
Example 1: A patient presents with suspected acute myeloid leukemia (AML).A bone marrow aspirate is sent for flow cytometry with CD33, CD13, and CD34 markers. Code 88184 is used for the initial marker (CD33), and 88185 is added for the additional markers (CD13 and CD34)., A patient undergoing treatment for lymphoma has a peripheral blood sample analyzed by flow cytometry to monitor response to therapy.Multiple markers are used to assess the level of residual malignant cells. 88184 is used for the first marker, and 88185 for additional markers., A patient with suspected immune deficiency undergoes flow cytometry analysis of peripheral blood to evaluate lymphocyte subsets.Several markers are used to identify T cells, B cells, and NK cells.88184 is used for the first marker; 88185 is added on for the additional markers.
* Complete patient demographics* Ordering physician information* Specimen type and source (e.g., bone marrow aspirate, peripheral blood)* List of markers used, including the primary marker(s) reported with 88184 and additional markers reported with 88185.* Flow cytometry results report, including the gating strategy, cell populations identified, and percentage of positive cells for each marker.* Clinician's interpretation of the results.* Medical necessity documentation supporting the need for flow cytometry.
** Always refer to the most current CPT codebook and payer guidelines for accurate coding and billing practices.This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice.This description is based on available data and may be subject to updates.
- Revenue Code: T1G (LAB TESTS - OTHER)
- RVU: Information not available in source.
- Global Days: Not applicable to laboratory procedures.
- Payment Status: Active
- Modifier TC rule: Not applicable.
- Fee Schedule: Information not available in source.
- Specialties:Hematology, Oncology, Immunology
- Place of Service:Laboratory