The designation 88112 within the Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) coding system refers to cytopathology, selective cellular enhancement technique with interpretation. This procedure involves the application of methods that concentrate and enhance specific cellular components from a liquid-based cytology specimen, followed by a pathologist’s interpretation of the enhanced preparation. For example, if a sample obtained from a Pap test contains a low number of abnormal cells, this process can help to isolate and highlight those cells, making them easier to identify and diagnose.
This specific procedural code is vital in diagnostic pathology as it improves the sensitivity of cytological evaluations, especially in cases where the initial sample contains scant or obscured cellular material. The use of this enhancement technique aids in the early detection of cellular abnormalities, contributing to more accurate diagnoses and potentially improving patient outcomes. Historically, such techniques have evolved alongside advances in microscopy and cell separation technologies, demonstrating a commitment to refining diagnostic methods in healthcare.
