How To Use CPT Code 81170

CPT 81170 describes the analysis of variants in the kinase domain of the ABL1 gene, also known as BCR/ABL or ABL proto-oncogene 1 nonreceptor tyrosine kinase. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 81170?

CPT 81170 can be used to describe the analysis of specific mutations in the kinase domain of the ABL1 gene. This code is used when the lab analyst performs the technical lab test to identify alterations in the ABL1 gene that may be associated with acquired resistance to tyrosine kinase inhibitor medications, such as Imatinib.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 81170 is: ‘ABL1 (ABL proto-oncogene 1, non-receptor tyrosine kinase) (eg, acquired imatinib tyrosine kinase inhibitor resistance), gene analysis, variants in the kinase domain.’

3. Procedure

1. The lab analyst performs technical steps to analyze variants in the kinase domain of the ABL1 gene.
2. This includes extracting nucleic acids, amplifying the gene, and detecting target genes using methods such as nucleic acid probes.
3. The analysis focuses on specific mutations in the kinase domain that may be involved in acquired resistance to tyrosine kinase inhibitor medications.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 81170 is typically ordered for patients with chronic myeloid leukemia to evaluate treatment options or treatment failure, specifically related to tyrosine kinase inhibitor medications like Imatinib. It is not limited to testing for a specific condition, but rather used to identify mutations in the ABL1 gene that may have clinical implications.

5. When to use CPT code 81170

CPT code 81170 should be used when there is a need to analyze variants in the kinase domain of the ABL1 gene. It is appropriate when the analysis is performed to evaluate treatment options or treatment failure, particularly in relation to tyrosine kinase inhibitor medications like Imatinib.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 81170, documentation should include:

• Reason for ordering the test, such as evaluation of treatment options or treatment failure
• Specific mutations or alterations in the kinase domain of the ABL1 gene analyzed
• Details of the technical steps performed by the lab analyst
• Results of the analysis and any relevant interpretations
• Signature of the lab analyst performing the analysis

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 81170, ensure that the analysis is performed by a qualified lab analyst. It is important to follow the specific documentation requirements and provide all necessary information to support the claim. Additionally, be aware of any specific guidelines or modifiers that may be required by payers.

8. Historical information

CPT 81170 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2016. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A lab analyst performing the analysis of variants in the kinase domain of the ABL1 gene to evaluate treatment options for a patient with chronic myeloid leukemia.
2. An analysis of specific mutations in the ABL1 gene to determine acquired resistance to tyrosine kinase inhibitor medications for a patient with chronic myeloid leukemia.
3. Identifying alterations in the kinase domain of the ABL1 gene to assess treatment failure in a patient receiving tyrosine kinase inhibitor therapy.
4. Analyzing variants in the ABL1 gene to guide treatment decisions for a patient with chronic myeloid leukemia.
5. Performing gene analysis to identify mutations in the kinase domain of the ABL1 gene associated with acquired resistance to tyrosine kinase inhibitors.
6. Evaluating the presence of specific alterations in the ABL1 gene to determine the effectiveness of tyrosine kinase inhibitor medications for a patient with chronic myeloid leukemia.
7. Analyzing the kinase domain of the ABL1 gene to assess treatment response in a patient receiving tyrosine kinase inhibitor therapy.
8. Performing gene analysis to identify variants in the ABL1 gene that may be involved in acquired resistance to tyrosine kinase inhibitors.
9. Identifying specific mutations in the kinase domain of the ABL1 gene to guide treatment decisions for a patient with chronic myeloid leukemia.
10. Analyzing alterations in the ABL1 gene to evaluate treatment options for a patient with treatment-resistant chronic myeloid leukemia.