How To Use CPT Code 81334

CPT 81334 describes the targeted sequence analysis of the RUNX1 gene, specifically analyzing regions such as exons 3-8. 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 81334?

CPT 81334 is used to describe the targeted sequence analysis of the RUNX1 gene. This analysis focuses on specific regions of the gene, such as exons 3-8, to detect any changes or mutations that may be present. The test is performed by a lab analyst who follows a series of technical steps to extract nucleic acids, amplify the gene, and detect the target genes using methods like nucleic acid probes. The analysis is typically ordered for patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) to evaluate mutations associated with therapy resistance and treatment outcomes.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 81334 is: ‘RUNX1 (runt related transcription factor 1) gene analysis, targeted sequence analysis (eg, exons 3-8).’ This code represents the analysis of specific regions of the RUNX1 gene to identify any mutations or changes that may be present.

3. Procedure

1. The lab analyst begins by extracting nucleic acids from a specimen, such as blood, using methods like digestion and cell lysis.
2. The extracted nucleic acids are then amplified to increase and stabilize the quantity of the gene for analysis. This amplification process can involve techniques like polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or transcription of DNA to RNA and reverse transcription from RNA to make additional copies of the DNA.
3. Once the gene is amplified, the lab analyst performs targeted sequence analysis on specific regions, such as exons 3-8 of the RUNX1 gene. This analysis involves detecting any changes or mutations that may be present using methods like nucleic acid probes.
4. The lab analyst completes all the necessary technical steps, from specimen collection to gene analysis, to provide a comprehensive report on the targeted sequence analysis of the RUNX1 gene.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 81334 is typically ordered for patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) to evaluate mutations associated with therapy resistance and treatment outcomes. However, the test is not limited to AML and can be ordered for other conditions or situations where targeted sequence analysis of the RUNX1 gene is necessary. The analysis is performed by a lab analyst who follows specific technical steps to extract, amplify, and analyze the gene.

5. When to use CPT code 81334

CPT code 81334 should be used when there is a need for targeted sequence analysis of the RUNX1 gene, specifically analyzing regions such as exons 3-8. This code is appropriate when the analysis is performed by a lab analyst to detect any changes or mutations in the gene. It is commonly ordered for patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) but can also be used for other conditions or situations where targeted sequence analysis of the RUNX1 gene is necessary.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 81334, the following documentation is required:

• Indication for the targeted sequence analysis of the RUNX1 gene
• Specific regions analyzed, such as exons 3-8
• Date of the analysis
• Technical steps performed by the lab analyst, including specimen collection, nucleic acid extraction, amplification, and gene analysis
• Results of the analysis, including any changes or mutations detected
• Signature of the lab analyst performing the analysis

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 81334, ensure that the targeted sequence analysis of the RUNX1 gene is performed by a lab analyst. The analysis should focus on specific regions, such as exons 3-8. It is important to follow any additional guidelines or requirements set by payers regarding specimen collection or interpretation of the test results. It is also essential to report any additional codes, such as specimen collection codes (e.g., 36415) or prep work codes (e.g., 88363, 88380, 88387, 88388), if applicable.

8. Historical information

CPT code 81334 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2018. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A lab analyst performs targeted sequence analysis of the RUNX1 gene, specifically analyzing exons 3-8, for a patient with acute myeloid leukemia (AML).
2. Targeted sequence analysis of the RUNX1 gene, focusing on exons 3-8, is performed by a lab analyst to evaluate mutations associated with therapy resistance in a patient with AML.
3. A physician orders targeted sequence analysis of the RUNX1 gene, specifically analyzing exons 3-8, to assess treatment outcomes for a patient with AML.
4. For a patient with suspected genetic disorders, a lab analyst performs targeted sequence analysis of the RUNX1 gene, focusing on exons 3-8, to identify any mutations or changes.
5. Targeted sequence analysis of the RUNX1 gene, specifically analyzing exons 3-8, is performed by a lab analyst to evaluate the presence of mutations in a patient with therapy-resistant AML.
6. A lab analyst conducts targeted sequence analysis of the RUNX1 gene, focusing on exons 3-8, to assess the genetic profile of a patient with AML.