88302 Tissue examination by pathologist
Also known as: tissue exam, microscopic pathology, histology exam
Microscopic examination of tissue sections (1 to 4 blocks) by a pathologist including slide preparation and diagnostic interpretation.
In Plain Language
microscopic tissue examination; tissue analysis under microscope
Clinical Context
Initial diagnostic examination of surgical specimens or biopsies; blocks are tissue samples preserved in paraffin for sectioning and staining.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 0.13 |
| Total RVU | 0.13 |
Est. Medicare Payment
National estimate based on 2026 CMS PFS Conversion Factor ($33.40). Actual payment varies by locality (GPCI adjustment).
Billing & Documentation
Lab and pathology codes require an order from the treating provider with clinical indication. For molecular pathology and genetic testing, document the specific analytes tested and clinical rationale.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 0.13, this code ranks in the 2nd percentile among Pathology & Lab codes — 5.2x below the median (0.68). The highest wRVU in this category is 2.78.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 88302?
CPT 88302 (Tissue examination by pathologist) is a Pathology & Lab code. Microscopic examination of tissue sections (1 to 4 blocks) by a pathologist including slide preparation and diagnostic interpretation.
Who uses CPT code 88302?
CPT 88302 is used by Surgical Pathology, Pathology. Initial diagnostic examination of surgical specimens or biopsies; blocks are tissue samples preserved in paraffin for sectioning and staining.
When is CPT 88302 used?
Initial diagnostic examination of surgical specimens or biopsies; blocks are tissue samples preserved in paraffin for sectioning and staining.
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CPT® is a registered trademark of the American Medical Association. Data sourced from CMS Physician Fee Schedule RVU26A. Descriptions, synonyms, and clinical context are original content by RVU Edge.