How To Use CPT Code 0189U

CPT 0189U describes a specific gene analysis test known as Red cell antigen (MNS blood group) genotyping. This article will cover the official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, and examples of CPT code 0189U.

1. What is CPT Code 0189U?

CPT 0189U is a proprietary laboratory analysis (PLA) code that represents the Navigator GYPA Sequencing test from Grifols Immunohematology Center. This test analyzes specific gene sequences, including introns 1 and 5 and exon 2 of the GYPA (glycophorin A) gene. The analysis helps determine the MNS blood group antigens present in an individual’s red blood cells (RBCs). The test is primarily used to minimize adverse blood-type incompatibility reactions in blood transfusions, organ transplants, and pregnancy and newborns.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 0189U is: ‘Red cell antigen (MNS blood group) genotyping (GYPA), gene analysis, GYPA (glycophorin A [MNS blood group]) introns 1, 5, exon 2.’

3. Procedure

1. The lab analyst performs gene analysis using a patient specimen, such as blood or saliva.
2. The specific gene sequences of GYPA (glycophorin A) are analyzed, including introns 1 and 5 and exon 2.
3. The test involves DNA amplification, typically using polymerase chain reaction (PCR), to make multiple copies of the desired gene for study.
4. A Luminex® platform is used to identify genetic markers for specific red blood cell antigens in the MNS blood group.
5. The analysis helps determine the presence or absence of specific red blood cell antigens, contributing to the individual’s MNS blood group.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 0189U is typically ordered for patients who require improved transfusion or transplant compatibility. It may also be ordered for maternal blood specimens to minimize adverse blood reactions in newborns or maternal antibody formation. The test is useful when traditional serology typing methods may be compromised by antibody interference, weak antibody reactivity, or antigen expression.

5. When to use CPT code 0189U

CPT code 0189U should be used when the Navigator GYPA Sequencing test from Grifols Immunohematology Center is performed. It is important to ensure that the test is performed on a single specimen analyzed on a single date of service. If genotyping of the GYPB gene is also required, CPT code 0190U should be used.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 0189U, the following documentation is required:

• Patient’s specimen type (blood or saliva)
• Date of service
• Results of the gene analysis for GYPA (glycophorin A) introns 1 and 5, and exon 2
• Genetic markers identified for specific red blood cell antigens in the MNS blood group
• Signature of the lab analyst performing the test

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 0189U, ensure that the test is performed by Grifols Immunohematology Center using the Navigator GYPA Sequencing test. Report one unit of this code for a single specimen analyzed on a single date of service. Some payers may separately reimburse for specimen collection using a code such as 36415. It is important to use the correct PLA code for the specific proprietary test offered by the lab.

8. Historical information

CPT code 0189U was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on July 1, 2020. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A patient undergoes the Navigator GYPA Sequencing test from Grifols Immunohematology Center to determine their MNS blood group antigens for improved transfusion compatibility.
2. A maternal blood specimen is analyzed using CPT code 0189U to minimize adverse blood reactions in a newborn.
3. A tissue donor and recipient both undergo the Navigator GYPA Sequencing test to ensure compatibility for an organ transplant.
4. A patient with a history of weak antibody reactivity requires CPT code 0189U to accurately determine their MNS blood group antigens.
5. A blood donor is tested using CPT code 0189U to ensure compatibility with potential recipients.