88312 Special stains group 1
Also known as: special stains group 1, gram stain, GMS stain, acid-fast stain
Special histochemical staining procedure Group 1, including stains such as Gram, GMS (Gomori methenamine silver), acid-fast, and other Group 1 stains.
In Plain Language
special tissue coloring; bacterial/fungal stain
Clinical Context
Used to identify microorganisms (bacteria, fungi, acid-fast organisms), help diagnose infections, and visualize specific tissue components.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 0.53 |
| Total RVU | 0.53 |
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 0.53, this code ranks in the 40th percentile among Pathology & Lab codes — 1.3x below the median (0.68). The highest wRVU in this category is 2.78.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 88312?
CPT 88312 (Special stains group 1) is a Pathology & Lab code. Special histochemical staining procedure Group 1, including stains such as Gram, GMS (Gomori methenamine silver), acid-fast, and other Group 1 stains.
Who uses CPT code 88312?
CPT 88312 is used by Pathology, Microbiology, Laboratory. Used to identify microorganisms (bacteria, fungi, acid-fast organisms), help diagnose infections, and visualize specific tissue components.
When is CPT 88312 used?
Used to identify microorganisms (bacteria, fungi, acid-fast organisms), help diagnose infections, and visualize specific tissue components.
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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.