How To Use CPT Code 0181U

CPT 0181U describes a specific gene analysis test called Red cell antigen (Colton blood group) genotyping (CO), gene analysis, AQP1 (aquaporin 1 [Colton blood group]) exon 1. This article will cover the official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, and examples.

1. What is CPT Code 0181U?

CPT 0181U is a unique code used to identify the Navigator CO Sequencing test from Grifols Immunohematology Center. This proprietary laboratory analysis (PLA) code is specific to the gene analysis of the AQP1 gene’s exon 1, which is associated with the Colton (CO) blood group. The test helps clinicians minimize adverse blood-type incompatibility reactions in various medical procedures such as blood transfusions, organ transplants, and pregnancy.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 0181U is: ‘Red cell antigen (Colton blood group) genotyping (CO), gene analysis, AQP1 (aquaporin 1 [Colton blood group]) exon 1.’

3. Procedure

1. The lab analyst performs gene analysis using a patient specimen, such as blood or saliva, to analyze exon 1 of the AQP1 gene.
2. The test involves DNA amplification, typically using polymerase chain reaction (PCR), to make multiple copies of the desired gene for study.
3. A Luminex® platform is used to identify genetic markers for specific red blood cell antigens in the Colton blood group.
4. The test helps determine the presence of variant forms of the AQP1 gene, which determines the red blood cell antigens and, consequently, the individual’s blood group.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 0181U is ordered by clinicians to improve transfusion or transplant compatibility, or to minimize adverse blood reactions or maternal antibody formation in pregnancy and newborns. It is used for specimens from blood or tissue donors and recipients, as well as maternal blood samples. The test provides advantages over traditional serology typing methods, as it is not affected by antibody interference or weak antibody reactivity.

5. When to use CPT code 0181U

CPT code 0181U should be used when the Navigator CO Sequencing test from Grifols Immunohematology Center is performed. It is important to ensure that the test is ordered for the appropriate patient specimens, such as blood or saliva, and that it is necessary to determine the Colton blood group antigens for transfusion, transplant, or pregnancy-related purposes.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 0181U, the following documentation is required:

• Patient’s information, including name and unique identifier
• Date of service when the test was performed
• Specimen type used for the analysis (e.g., blood, saliva)
• Details of the gene analysis, including the specific gene and exon analyzed (AQP1 exon 1)
• Results of the analysis, indicating the presence or absence of specific genetic markers for Colton blood group antigens
• Signature or identification of the lab analyst performing the test

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 0181U, ensure that the test is performed by Grifols Immunohematology Center using the Navigator CO Sequencing test. Report one unit of this code for a single specimen analyzed on a single date of service. It is important to note that some payers may separately reimburse for specimen collection using a code such as 36415. Verify the correct PLA code for the specific blood group antigen genotyping test, as Grifols Immunohematology Center offers multiple PLA codes for different blood group antigens.

8. Historical information

CPT code 0181U was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on July 1, 2020. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A patient undergoing a blood transfusion requires Colton blood group genotyping to ensure compatibility.
2. A pregnant woman’s blood sample is analyzed to determine the presence of Colton blood group antigens that may cause adverse reactions in the newborn.
3. A tissue donor’s specimen is tested to assess the compatibility with a specific recipient based on Colton blood group genotyping.
4. A patient scheduled for an organ transplant undergoes Colton blood group genotyping to minimize the risk of adverse reactions.
5. A clinician orders Colton blood group genotyping for a patient with a history of adverse transfusion reactions to identify potential antigen incompatibility.
6. A newborn’s blood sample is analyzed to determine the presence of Colton blood group antigens that may cause hemolytic disease of the newborn.
7. A patient with a rare blood group requires Colton blood group genotyping to identify compatible blood donors.
8. A clinician orders Colton blood group genotyping for a patient with a known antibody to assess the risk of adverse reactions during transfusion.
9. A patient with a history of multiple organ transplants undergoes Colton blood group genotyping to ensure compatibility for future procedures.
10. A clinician orders Colton blood group genotyping for a patient with a suspected antibody-mediated transfusion reaction to identify the specific antigen involved.