The correct CPT code to use for touch preps is 88161.  


Jennifer MacDonald
San Antonio Community Hospital
Upland, CA  91786
(909) 985-2811 ext. 4148
jmacdonald@sach.org


> ----------
> From: 	hittson[SMTP:hittson@matnet.com]
> Sent: 	Thursday, June 08, 2000 7:50 PM
> To: 	histonet@pathology.swmed.edu
> Subject: 	CPT code for TOUCH PREPS????
> 
> 6/8/00
> Dear Histonetters, 
> 
> While we are on the topic of CPT coding, I am still looking for a good CPT
> code for touch preps taken from a fresh specimen in connection with a
> surgical tissue diagnosis, such as for a lymph node biopsy (usually coded
> as 88305). I don't think it should be the same as FNA interpretation
> (88173). Maybe 88104? 	Any suggestions?
> 
> Jeff Hittson, M.D. - pathologist
> Valley Pathology Services, Palmer Alaska
> 
>