Summary & Overview
CPT 0017U: JAK2 Mutation Sequencing (Exons 12–14)
CPT code 0017U is a Proprietary Laboratory Analyses (PLA) code for JAK2 mutation testing performed by the University of Iowa, Department of Pathology. It specifically denotes sequence analysis of blood or bone marrow specimens to detect JAK2 mutations in exons 12–14. As a PLA code, 0017U identifies a single laboratory’s proprietary assay and is used where precise identification of the performing laboratory and test is required. Nationally, targeted molecular diagnostics like this are important for diagnosis, prognosis, and therapeutic decision-making in hematologic disorders linked to JAK2 alterations.
Key payers examined in this analysis include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find a concise overview of the code’s clinical purpose, typical sites of service, and payer coverage landscape. The publication summarizes benchmark considerations for proprietary molecular tests, discusses common billing modifiers associated with lab services, and outlines the clinical context in which JAK2 sequencing is ordered. Data not available in the input are noted where applicable. The content is written for a national audience and focuses on the code definition, payer scope, and clinical relevance of JAK2 mutation testing under CPT code 0017U.
Billing Code Overview
CPT code 0017U is a Proprietary Laboratory Analyses (PLA) code that describes a single, manufacturer- or laboratory-specific molecular test. This code represents JAK2 Mutation testing performed by the University of Iowa, Department of Pathology. The assay analyzes gene sequence from blood or bone marrow specimens to report the presence or absence of JAK2 mutations in exons 12–14.
Service type: Molecular diagnostic laboratory test (proprietary JAK2 gene sequencing)
Typical site of service: Clinical laboratory or hospital pathology laboratory; specimens collected from outpatient clinics, inpatient units, or phlebotomy centers.
Clinical & Coding Specifications
Clinical Context
A 62-year-old patient with long-standing erythrocytosis and new-onset splenomegaly is referred to hematology for evaluation of a suspected myeloproliferative neoplasm. The hematologist orders a targeted molecular assay to detect activating mutations in the JAK2 gene (exons 12–14) on a peripheral blood specimen to distinguish polycythemia vera or other JAK2-mutated disorders from secondary causes of erythrocytosis. A phlebotomy is performed in an outpatient laboratory or hospital blood draw station; the sample is sent to the University of Iowa, Department of Pathology for Proprietary Laboratory Analysis reported under 0017U. Results reporting includes presence or absence of JAK2 mutations in exons 12–14 and variant details when detected. The result informs diagnosis, risk stratification, and treatment planning (for example cytoreductive therapy selection). Typical site of service: outpatient laboratory or hospital outpatient clinic; specimen types: peripheral blood or bone marrow aspirate.
Coding Specifications
| Modifier | Description | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
26 | Professional component | Use when billing only the professional (interpretation) portion if split billing between lab and reporting physician. |
TC |