88332

88332 is a billing code used in the medical field. Specifically, it is a CPT (Current Procedural Terminology) code. CPT codes are maintained by the American Medical Association and are used for reporting medical, surgical, and diagnostic services. Code 88332 pertains to "Pathology and laboratory services," and more precisely, it is for "Immuno-histochemistry or *in situ* hybridization, each additional block."

This code is used by pathologists and laboratories to bill for services rendered when a pathologist examines tissue samples. The "each additional block" designation indicates that this code is used for examining blocks of tissue beyond the first one. Immuno-histochemistry is a technique that uses antibodies to detect specific antigens in tissue samples, aiding in diagnosis. *In situ* hybridization is another technique used to detect specific nucleic acid sequences within cells or tissues.

When a pathologist analyzes a tissue sample for diagnostic purposes, they may embed the tissue in a block (often paraffin wax) to create thin sections for microscopic examination. If multiple blocks are prepared from a single specimen to thoroughly examine the tissue, or if specific stains (like immuno-histochemistry) are performed on multiple sections from different blocks, the billing for these additional examinations is captured using code 88332. This code ensures accurate reimbursement for the labor and materials involved in these specialized microscopic analyses.