How To Use CPT Code 81371

CPT 81371 describes the low or intermediate resolution typing of HLA Class I and II loci, specifically HLA-A, -B, and -DRB1, using molecular techniques. 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 81371?

CPT 81371 can be used to identify specific alleles for HLA Class I and II loci, including HLA-A, -B, and -DRB1. This test involves low or intermediate resolution typing, which means identifying the alleles without high specificity, such as to the level of the two-digit HLA name or a string of alleles. It is commonly ordered to assess donor/recipient compatibility for solid organ or hematopoietic stem cell transplants.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 81371 is: ‘HLA Class I and II typing, low resolution (eg, antigen equivalents); HLA-A, -B, and -DRB1 (eg, verification typing).’

3. Procedure

1. The lab analyst performs the technical lab test for low or intermediate resolution assessment of HLA genes, specifically HLA-A, -B, and -DRB1.
2. The lab analyst extracts nucleic acids from the sample and identifies the target HLA gene sequences using methods such as amplification and hybridization with nucleic acid probes or direct sequencing-based typing.
3. The typing is performed to identify specific alleles for the HLA Class I and II loci listed in the code.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 81371 is typically ordered to assess donor/recipient compatibility for solid organ or hematopoietic stem cell transplants. It is not limited to testing for a specific condition and can be used in various clinical scenarios where HLA typing is necessary.

5. When to use CPT code 81371

CPT code 81371 should be used when there is a need for low or intermediate resolution typing of HLA Class I and II loci, specifically HLA-A, -B, and -DRB1. It is commonly used for verification typing, which involves performing HLA on an independent sample to verify results consistent with the initial HLA typing.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 81371, documentation should include:

• Reason for ordering the test and the clinical indication
• Specific alleles identified for HLA-A, -B, and -DRB1
• Date and time of the test
• Signature of the lab analyst performing the test

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 81371, ensure that the test is performed for low or intermediate resolution typing of HLA-A, -B, and -DRB1. It is important to follow the specific guidelines provided by payers for accurate billing and reimbursement.

8. Historical information

CPT 81371 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2012. On January 1, 2014, the code description was updated to include HLA Class I and II typing, low resolution (eg, antigen equivalents); HLA-A, -B, and -DRB1/3/4/5 (eg, verification typing).

9. Examples

1. A patient undergoing HLA typing for verification purposes before a solid organ transplant.
2. An individual requiring HLA typing to assess compatibility for a hematopoietic stem cell transplant.
3. A clinician ordering HLA typing to determine donor/recipient compatibility for a bone marrow transplant.
4. A patient with a suspected autoimmune disease undergoing HLA typing to aid in diagnosis.
5. An individual participating in a research study requiring HLA typing for genetic analysis.
6. A patient with a family history of HLA-related diseases undergoing HLA typing for screening purposes.
7. A clinician ordering HLA typing to assess compatibility for a kidney transplant.
8. An individual seeking HLA typing to determine their risk of developing certain diseases.
9. A patient with a suspected drug hypersensitivity undergoing HLA typing to identify potential genetic factors.
10. An individual requiring HLA typing for forensic purposes, such as in criminal investigations or paternity testing.