2025 CPT code 81378
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Laboratory - Molecular Pathology Procedures Pathology and Laboratory Feed
High-resolution HLA typing for Class I (HLA-A, -B, -C) and Class II (HLA-DRB1) using molecular techniques.
Modifiers may be applicable depending on the circumstances, such as modifier 26 for physician professional component and modifiers for place of service.
Medical necessity is established when HLA typing is ordered to evaluate donor-recipient compatibility for solid organ or hematopoietic stem cell transplants or to investigate potential associations with autoimmune diseases or other conditions.The ordering physician should document the specific clinical indication for the test.
The lab analyst performs all technical aspects, from nucleic acid extraction (e.g., cell lysis, digestion) to identifying target HLA gene sequences (e.g., amplification, hybridization, direct sequencing).
In simple words: This lab test identifies specific genes (HLA) that help your body distinguish itself from foreign invaders.It uses advanced techniques to get very detailed results. This is often used to assess compatibility before organ or stem cell transplants.
This CPT code encompasses high-resolution molecular HLA typing for human leukocyte antigen genes.Specifically, it includes Class I genes HLA-A, -B, and -C, and Class II gene HLA-DRB1.The procedure uses molecular techniques to identify specific alleles or allele groups, providing high-resolution typing results.The analysis involves all analytical steps, from nucleic acid extraction to the identification of target HLA gene sequences, encompassing techniques such as amplification and hybridization or direct sequencing.
Example 1: Pre-transplant evaluation:A patient is preparing for a kidney transplant.HLA typing is performed to identify the patient's HLA alleles and find a compatible donor., Disease association: A patient presents with symptoms suggestive of an autoimmune disease. HLA typing helps to determine if specific HLA alleles are present, which may indicate a predisposition to particular autoimmune diseases., Forensic investigation: HLA typing can be utilized in forensic investigations to help identify or exclude individuals from suspect pools.
Patient demographics, specimen type (whole blood, buccal swabs), relevant clinical history (e.g., transplant history, autoimmune diseases), test requisition with clear indication of high resolution typing requested, and complete results with interpretations.
** High-resolution typing involves identifying alleles to a high degree of specificity (e.g., 4-digit HLA name).For rare alleles, a string of alleles or a National Bone Marrow Donor Program code might be reported.
- Payment Status: Active
- Modifier TC rule: The technical component (TC) is typically included in this code, however professional component (26) can be billed separately.
- Specialties:Immunology, Transplantation, Pathology, Hematology
- Place of Service:Laboratory