2025 CPT code 81554
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Pathology and Laboratory Procedures - Multianalyte Assays with Algorithmic Analyses Feed
Pulmonary disease (idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis [IPF]), mRNA, gene expression analysis of 190 genes, utilizing transbronchial biopsies, diagnostic algorithm reported as categorical result (e.g., positive or negative for high probability of usual interstitial pneumonia [UIP]).
Medical necessity for 81554 is established when there is clinical suspicion of IPF or other interstitial lung diseases, and the test results will influence the patient's management, potentially avoiding the need for surgical lung biopsy.
The laboratory analyst performs the technical aspects of the test, including nucleic acid extraction, stabilization, and amplification of 190 gene markers. They then utilize an algorithm to analyze the test results along with patient data to determine and report a categorical result (positive or negative) for a high probability of UIP.
In simple words: This test examines the activity of 190 genes in a lung sample to help determine the likelihood of a specific lung disease pattern called usual interstitial pneumonia (UIP), often associated with a condition called idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). It uses a computer program to analyze the results and provides a "yes" or "no" answer regarding the high probability of UIP.
This MAAA test analyzes mRNA gene expression profiling of 190 genes associated with pulmonary disease, specifically idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), using transbronchial biopsy specimens. It uses an algorithmic analysis, incorporating patient data and lab test results, to produce a categorical result indicating a high probability of usual interstitial pneumonia (UIP).
Example 1: A patient with suspected IPF undergoes a bronchoscopy with transbronchial biopsy. The sample is sent for 81554 testing to assess the likelihood of UIP, which helps guide further diagnostic and treatment decisions., A patient presents with progressive shortness of breath and a cough. Imaging suggests interstitial lung disease. To avoid a surgical lung biopsy, a transbronchial biopsy is taken and analyzed using 81554 to evaluate for a UIP pattern and help diagnose IPF., A patient with a family history of IPF undergoes a transbronchial biopsy after exhibiting early symptoms of interstitial lung disease. The 81554 test helps assess the likelihood of UIP and the need for more invasive procedures or treatments.
Documentation should include the reason for the test, the patient's relevant medical history (including symptoms, imaging results, and other diagnostic tests), and a copy of the bronchoscopy and biopsy report.
- Specialties:Pulmonary Medicine, Pathology
- Place of Service:Independent Laboratory, Hospital (Inpatient or Outpatient)