You have been stuck with 86805-86822 for human leukocyte antigen (HLA)
testing; now we have some new options for human leukocyte antigen (HLA)
testing.
For more on the new options and how you should report HLA typing and cross match for transplant patients, read on:
Know HLA typing – The old fashioned serology way
CPT has chosen four new codes for HLA typing using serologic methods, which labs have used for years.
Recognize ‘class' terminology: The lab report might state that the test was for HLA class I antigens. To choose the proper code, you will need to know how the class terminology aligns with the code definitions. While Class I refers to A, B and C, Class II refers to certain DQ and DR antigens.
For Molecular Diagnostics, update your HLA typing codes
Many labs now carry out HLA typing using molecular diagnostics methods instead of serologic testing. How will you report these tests?
Problem: Till last year, AMA direction published in CPT Assistant indicated that you should continue to report 86812-86817, even if the lab carried out HLA typing by molecular diagnostics techniques like high resolution polymerase chain reaction (PCR).
Solution: CPT 2009 had added the following instruction following code 86822. For HLA typing by molecular pathology techniques, see 83890-83914 with the right genetic testing modifiers 4A-4G. This instruction frees your lab to gather proper pay by choosing the molecular diagnostics codes that describe each step of a specific HLA typing test.
For more on the new options and how you should report HLA typing and cross match for transplant patients, read on:
Know HLA typing – The old fashioned serology way
CPT has chosen four new codes for HLA typing using serologic methods, which labs have used for years.
Recognize ‘class' terminology: The lab report might state that the test was for HLA class I antigens. To choose the proper code, you will need to know how the class terminology aligns with the code definitions. While Class I refers to A, B and C, Class II refers to certain DQ and DR antigens.
For Molecular Diagnostics, update your HLA typing codes
Many labs now carry out HLA typing using molecular diagnostics methods instead of serologic testing. How will you report these tests?
Problem: Till last year, AMA direction published in CPT Assistant indicated that you should continue to report 86812-86817, even if the lab carried out HLA typing by molecular diagnostics techniques like high resolution polymerase chain reaction (PCR).
Solution: CPT 2009 had added the following instruction following code 86822. For HLA typing by molecular pathology techniques, see 83890-83914 with the right genetic testing modifiers 4A-4G. This instruction frees your lab to gather proper pay by choosing the molecular diagnostics codes that describe each step of a specific HLA typing test.
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