Billing and Coding: Lab: Flow Cytometry

Flow cytometry is covered when used to examine peripheral blood, cerebrospinal fluid, bone marrow, and lymphoreticular tissues per the Local Coverage Determination LCD L34215. Testing is allowed up to 24 markers without additional medical necessity documentation; tests exceeding 24 markers require submission of medical necessity documentation. Flow cytometry to detect or enumerate bacteria or viruses in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with or without polyps is investigational and not covered; claims must include the appropriate CPT code, 1 unit of service, and an appropriate ICD-10-CM diagnosis code.

"Flow cytometry is covered for examination of body fluids (including peripheral blood and cerebrospinal fluid), bone marrow, and lymphoreticular tissues (lymph nodes, tonsil, spleen)."

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