Pathology/Lab Coding Alert

Question: We perform an HLA oligotyping test involving 630 probes in a DNA chip. Since the array codes describe only tests for up to 500 probes, should we list multiple units of these codes?

Wisconsin Subscriber

Answer: No, you should not report the array codes additively to indicate a test that has more than 500 probes. Instead: You-ll have to list the array you describe using a non-specific lab code such as 88399 (Unlisted surgical pathology procedure).

The array codes are as follows:

- 88384 -- Array-based evaluation of multiple molecular probes; 11 through 50 probes

- 88385 -- - 51 through 250 probes

- 88386 -- - 251 through 500 probes

To report an array, you should select the single code that describes the number of probes involved in the test. For an array for 630 probes, you should not list 88385 and 88386 to represent 130 probes and 500 probes respectively.

Don't forget specimen prep: In addition to the molecular array test, you can separately report steps such as extracting and amplifying genetic material.Choose the appropriate codes, such as 83891 (Molecular diagnostics; isolation or extraction of highly purified nucleic acid), 83900 (- amplification target,multiplex, first two nucleic acid sequences), and 83892 (- enzymatic digestion).