2025 CPT code 88142
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Pathology and Laboratory - Cytopathology Screening Procedures Pathology and Laboratory Feed
Cytopathology, cervical or vaginal (any reporting system), collected in preservative fluid, automated thin layer preparation; manual screening under physician supervision.
Modifiers may be applicable in certain circumstances. Modifier 59 may be used to indicate a distinct procedural service.
Medical necessity is determined by the patient's risk factors, symptoms, and clinical history. Routine screening, follow-up of previous abnormalities, and evaluation of specific symptoms are common justifications.
The lab analyst performs all technical steps of the procedure, which include preparing the specimen using automated thin-layer preparation and manually screening the slide under a physician's supervision.
In simple words: This test analyzes cells collected from the cervix or vagina to check for abnormalities. The cells are collected in a special liquid and prepared on a slide using a machine, then examined under a microscope by a lab technician.
This code represents the technical work involved in processing a Pap smear specimen that has been collected in a preservative fluid using an automated thin-layer preparation method. The process includes manual screening of the prepared slide under the supervision of a physician. It is applicable to various reporting systems like the Bethesda system and is distinct from other Pap smear codes due to its specific collection and preparation requirements.
Example 1: A 30-year-old female patient undergoes a routine gynecological examination, which includes a Pap smear. The clinician collects the specimen in a preservative fluid, and the lab processes it using automated thin-layer preparation and manual screening, reported with code 88142., A 45-year-old female patient presents with postcoital bleeding. A Pap smear is collected in preservative fluid, prepared with thin-layer technology, and manually screened to assess for cervical abnormalities., A 25-year-old female patient has a history of abnormal Pap smears. Her current Pap smear is collected in preservative fluid and processed with automated thin-layer preparation and manual screening for thorough evaluation.
Documentation should include the type of specimen collected (cervical or vaginal), the method of collection (in preservative fluid), the preparation method (automated thin-layer), and the result of the screening.
- Revenue Code: T1H
- Payment Status: Active
- Specialties:Pathology, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Family Medicine
- Place of Service:Independent Laboratory, Office