Radiology and Pathology Coding Flashcards

A radiologist performs a bilateral mammogram with computer-aided detection (CAD). Which CPT code range applies to the CAD add-on?

Answer: 77067

CPT 77067 describes bilateral screening mammography with CAD included as a bundled service.

When coding a CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis performed together with contrast, the correct approach is to:

Answer: Use a single combination CPT code

CPT provides combination codes (e.g., 74178) for CT abdomen and pelvis performed together to avoid unbundling.

Which modifier is appended to indicate that a radiologic procedure was performed and interpreted by two different physicians?

Answer: -26

Modifier -26 identifies the professional component (interpretation only) when the technical component is billed separately.

A pathologist examines 3 separate lymph nodes submitted in 3 containers from the same patient. How should the surgical pathology be coded?

Answer: Three units of 88305

Surgical pathology codes are reported per specimen block/container, so three separate containers = three units.

An MRI of the brain is performed without contrast and then again with contrast. Which code set applies?

Answer: Report the without AND with contrast combination code

CPT has specific combination codes (e.g., 70553) for MRI performed both without and with contrast in the same session.

Which CPT code describes a fine needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy with imaging guidance?

Answer: 10005

CPT 10005 describes fine needle aspiration biopsy, first lesion, with ultrasound guidance.

A patient has a nuclear medicine bone scan of the whole body. Which CPT code is reported?

Answer: 78306

CPT 78306 describes a bone scan of the whole body (total body), distinct from limited or multiple area scans.