How To Use CPT Code 81179

CPT 81179 describes the analysis of the ATXN2 gene to detect abnormal alleles, specifically expanded sequences, which may indicate conditions such as spinocerebellar ataxia. 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 81179?

CPT 81179 is used to analyze the ATXN2 gene for the presence of abnormal alleles, particularly expanded sequences. This test helps in the detection of conditions such as spinocerebellar ataxia, which is characterized by coordination difficulties in movements like gait, hand, speech, and eye movements. The analysis involves examining the gene to identify any enlarged gene segments that repeat the nucleotide sequence CAG more than normal.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 81179 is: ‘ATXN2 (ataxin 2) (eg, spinocerebellar ataxia) gene analysis, evaluation to detect abnormal (eg, expanded) alleles.’

3. Procedure

1. The lab analyst performs technical steps to analyze the ATXN2 gene using a specimen, typically blood.
2. The process involves extracting nucleic acids from the specimen through methods like cell lysis and digestion.
3. The lab analyst then amplifies and stabilizes the quantity of nucleic acid for analysis using techniques like polymerase chain reaction (PCR).
4. The target genes, specifically the ATXN2 gene, are detected and evaluated.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 81179 is ordered by clinicians to aid in the diagnosis of spinocerebellar ataxia 2 (SCA2) or to determine carrier status. It is not limited to testing for a specific condition but is commonly used for SCA2. The test is performed on individuals who may exhibit symptoms of poor coordination and other related issues. The presence of abnormal alleles, particularly expanded sequences, in the ATXN2 gene may indicate the presence of spinocerebellar ataxia or carrier status.

5. When to use CPT code 81179

CPT code 81179 should be used when there is a clinical need to analyze the ATXN2 gene for the detection of abnormal alleles, specifically expanded sequences. It is commonly ordered when there is suspicion of spinocerebellar ataxia or to determine carrier status. This code should not be used for other genetic tests related to different forms of spinocerebellar ataxia or other genes.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 81179, the documentation should include:

• Reason for ordering the test, such as suspicion of spinocerebellar ataxia or carrier status
• Details of the specimen used, typically blood
• Methodology used for nucleic acid extraction and amplification
• Results of the analysis, including the presence of abnormal alleles or expanded sequences
• Interpretation of the test results, if provided by a physician

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 81179, ensure that the analysis of the ATXN2 gene is performed to detect abnormal alleles, specifically expanded sequences. It is important to distinguish this code from other genetic tests related to different forms of spinocerebellar ataxia or other genes. Additional codes may be reported for specimen collection or physician interpretation, if applicable.

8. Historical information

CPT 81179 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2019. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A patient with symptoms of poor coordination undergoes CPT 81179 to analyze the ATXN2 gene for the detection of abnormal alleles.
2. A clinician orders CPT 81179 to determine the carrier status of an individual with a family history of spinocerebellar ataxia.
3. As part of a comprehensive genetic evaluation, CPT 81179 is performed to assess the presence of abnormal alleles in the ATXN2 gene in a patient with unexplained neurological symptoms.
4. A patient with suspected spinocerebellar ataxia undergoes CPT 81179 to confirm the presence of expanded sequences in the ATXN2 gene.
5. CPT 81179 is used to analyze the ATXN2 gene in a research study investigating the prevalence of abnormal alleles in a specific population.
6. A clinician orders CPT 81179 to evaluate the ATXN2 gene in a patient with a family history of spinocerebellar ataxia, aiming to provide genetic counseling and guidance.
7. As part of a preconception screening, CPT 81179 is performed to assess the ATXN2 gene in individuals planning to start a family, to identify carrier status for spinocerebellar ataxia.
8. A patient with unexplained coordination difficulties undergoes CPT 81179 to determine if abnormal alleles in the ATXN2 gene are contributing to their symptoms.
9. CPT 81179 is used to analyze the ATXN2 gene in a patient with suspected spinocerebellar ataxia, aiming to provide a definitive diagnosis and guide treatment options.
10. A clinician orders CPT 81179 to evaluate the ATXN2 gene in a patient with a family history of spinocerebellar ataxia, aiming to assess the risk of developing the condition.