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Official Description

HLA typing; A, B, or C, multiple antigens

© Copyright 2025 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

Human leukocyte antigen (HLA) typing is a laboratory procedure that identifies specific antigens present on the surface of cells, particularly those involved in the immune response. This process focuses on the A, B, or C antigens, which are critical for determining tissue compatibility in various medical contexts. HLA typing is essential for identifying individuals who may be susceptible to certain diseases, as well as for assessing compatibility between potential stem cell, bone marrow, or solid organ transplant donors and recipients. Additionally, HLA typing plays a significant role in determining eligibility for specific vaccine or immunotherapy treatments. The antigens are categorized into Class I and Class II alleles, with current testing methods available for assessing susceptibility to diseases such as ankylosing spondylitis through HLA-B27 DNA typing. Other tests, including HLA-A, HLA-B, and HLA-C DNA typing, are utilized to evaluate the risk of autoimmune disorders and to ensure proper tissue matching for transplants. It is important to note that CPT® Code 86812 should be used when testing for a single antigen, while CPT® Code 86813 is designated for cases where multiple HLA antigens are analyzed.

© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

HLA typing is performed for several specific indications, including:

  • Susceptibility to Disease Testing for specific HLA alleles helps identify individuals who may be at risk for certain diseases, such as autoimmune disorders.
  • Tissue Compatibility HLA typing is crucial for determining the compatibility of potential stem cell, bone marrow, or solid organ transplant donors with the intended recipients, ensuring a higher success rate for transplants.
  • Eligibility for Immunotherapy The procedure is used to assess eligibility for certain vaccine or immunotherapy treatments, which may depend on the individual's HLA profile.
  • Platelet Compatibility HLA typing can also be utilized to determine platelet compatibility, which is important for improving platelet survival following transfusion.

2. Procedure

The procedure for HLA typing involves several key steps, which are detailed as follows:

  • Sample Collection A blood sample is collected from the patient, which serves as the source of DNA for the HLA typing process. This sample is typically drawn from a vein in the arm using standard venipuncture techniques.
  • DNA Extraction The collected blood sample undergoes a process of DNA extraction, where the cellular components are separated to isolate the DNA. This step is critical for ensuring that the genetic material is suitable for analysis.
  • Amplification of HLA Genes Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) techniques are employed to amplify the specific regions of the DNA that correspond to the HLA genes. This amplification is necessary to produce enough DNA for accurate typing.
  • Typing of HLA Antigens The amplified DNA is then analyzed to identify the presence of specific HLA antigens (A, B, or C). This may involve various methods, including sequence-specific oligonucleotide probes or next-generation sequencing, to determine the specific alleles present.
  • Result Interpretation The results of the HLA typing are interpreted by qualified laboratory personnel, who will provide a report detailing the identified HLA antigens. This report is essential for clinicians to make informed decisions regarding patient care, particularly in transplant and treatment planning.

3. Post-Procedure

After the HLA typing procedure, the patient may not require any specific post-procedure care, as the process is minimally invasive and typically does not result in significant side effects. However, it is important for healthcare providers to communicate the results of the HLA typing to the patient and discuss any implications for treatment or further testing. Patients may be advised to follow up with their healthcare provider to understand the significance of their HLA typing results, especially if they are being considered for transplant or specific therapies. Additionally, proper documentation of the results is essential for future medical decisions and potential donor-recipient matching.

Short Descr HLA TYPING A B OR C
Medium Descr HLA TYPING A/B/C MULTIPLE ANTIGENS
Long Descr HLA typing; A, B, or C, multiple antigens
Status Code Statutory Exclusion (from MPFS, may be paid under other methodologies)
Global Days XXX - Global Concept Does Not Apply
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) 9 - Not Applicable
Multiple Procedures (51) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Bilateral Surgery (50) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Physician Supervisions 09 - Concept does not apply.
Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Co-Surgeons (62) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Team Surgery (66) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Diagnostic Imaging Family 99 - Concept Does Not Apply
CLIA Waived (QW) No
APC Status Indicator Conditionally packaged laboratory tests
Type of Service (TOS) 5 - Diagnostic Laboratory
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) T1H - Lab tests - other (non-Medicare fee schedule)
MUE 1
CCS Clinical Classification 206 - Microscopic examination (bacterial smear, culture, toxicology)
90 Reference (outside) laboratory: when laboratory procedures are performed by a party other than the treating or reporting physician or other qualified health care professional, the procedure may be identified by adding modifier 90 to the usual procedure number.
GZ Item or service expected to be denied as not reasonable and necessary
Date
Action
Notes
2011-01-01 Changed Short description changed.
Pre-1990 Added Code added.
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