How To Use CPT Code 81348

CPT 81348 describes the genetic analysis procedure for detecting common variants in the SRSF2 gene, such as P95H and P95L, which may be associated with conditions like myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) or acute myeloid leukemia (AML). 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 81348?

CPT 81348 is used to identify common variants in the SRSF2 gene, such as P95H and P95L, through a genetic analysis procedure. This test is performed on a specimen, typically blood, to detect specific changes in the gene that may be associated with conditions like myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) or acute myeloid leukemia (AML).

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 81348 is: ‘SRSF2 (serine and arginine-rich splicing factor 2) gene analysis, common variants (eg, P95H, P95L).’ This code represents the testing for common variants in the SRSF2 gene, including P95H and P95L.

3. Procedure

1. The lab analyst performs the technical steps of the genetic analysis procedure using a specimen, such as blood.
2. The process involves extracting nucleic acids from the specimen through methods like cell lysis and digestion.
3. The lab analyst then amplifies the nucleic acids using techniques like polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to increase and stabilize the quantity of genetic material for analysis.
4. The target genes, specifically the SRSF2 gene, are detected and analyzed to identify common variants, such as P95H and P95L.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 81348 is used when there is a clinical need to detect common variants in the SRSF2 gene. This test may be ordered by clinicians to aid in the diagnosis and prognosis of myeloid disorders, such as myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) or acute myeloid leukemia (AML). It is important to note that this test does not specifically target a single condition but rather detects common variants associated with various myeloid disorders.

5. When to use CPT code 81348

CPT code 81348 should be used when there is a clinical indication to perform a genetic analysis to detect common variants in the SRSF2 gene. This test is typically ordered when there is a suspicion of myeloid disorders, such as myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) or acute myeloid leukemia (AML). It is important to consider the patient’s clinical presentation and medical history when determining the need for this test.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 81348, the following documentation is typically required:

• Indication for the test, including the suspected myeloid disorder
• Details of the genetic analysis procedure performed
• Specific common variants detected, such as P95H and P95L
• Results of the analysis and any relevant interpretations
• Signature of the lab analyst performing the test

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 81348, ensure that the test is performed to detect common variants in the SRSF2 gene. It is important to follow the specific guidelines provided by payers regarding documentation and coding requirements. Additionally, consider reporting any separate services, such as specimen collection, using appropriate codes like 36415. If physician interpretation is separately requested and provided, modifier 26 may be appended to the appropriate code, such as G0452, to indicate the professional component of the service.

8. Historical information

CPT 81348 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2021. As of now, there have been no updates or changes to this code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A patient with suspected myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) undergoes a genetic analysis procedure to detect common variants in the SRSF2 gene, such as P95H and P95L.
2. A clinician orders a genetic test to identify common variants in the SRSF2 gene for a patient with a suspected diagnosis of acute myeloid leukemia (AML).
3. A patient with a family history of myeloid disorders undergoes a genetic analysis to detect common variants in the SRSF2 gene for carrier status.
4. A clinician requests a genetic test to analyze the SRSF2 gene for known familial variants in a patient with a family history of myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS).
5. A patient with clinical symptoms suggestive of myeloid disorders undergoes a genetic analysis to detect common variants in the SRSF2 gene for diagnostic purposes.