Summary & Overview
CPT 0186U: FUT2 Sequencing for H Antigen Secretor Status
CPT code 0186U is a Proprietary Laboratory Analyses (PLA) code that identifies the Navigator FUT2 Sequencing test from Grifols Immunohematology Center, a targeted genetic sequencing assay for FUT2 gene variants that influence H antigen presence in secretions. This test has clinical relevance for immunohematology by clarifying secretor status and reducing the risk of blood-type incompatibility in transfusion, transplantation, and perinatal care. Nationally, PLA codes like 0186U matter because they enable tracking and billing for single-manufacturer or single-laboratory molecular tests that have specific clinical utility.
Key payers covered in this analysis include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find a concise overview of the clinical context for the test, the typical site of service, and which payers are considered. The publication outlines what users can expect to learn: how the code is defined, where the test is performed, common billing modifiers associated with the service, and available input data. It also highlights limitations where input data are absent and directs readers to the clinical implications of FUT2 sequencing in transfusion and perinatal settings. Data not available in the input are noted where relevant.
Billing Code Overview
CPT code 0186U is a Proprietary Laboratory Analyses (PLA) code for the Navigator FUT2 Sequencing test from Grifols Immunohematology Center. The assay sequences specific regions of the FUT2 gene to characterize variants that affect H blood group antigens, particularly the H antigen present in secretions such as saliva. Results can inform immunohematology interpretation to help minimize adverse blood–type incompatibility reactions in blood transfusion, organ transplantation, and management of pregnant patients and newborns.
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Service type: Genetic sequencing laboratory test focused on FUT2 gene analysis for H antigen secretion status
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Typical site of service: Clinical laboratory (specimen sources include blood or saliva)
Clinical & Coding Specifications
Clinical Context
A 32-year-old pregnant woman with a history of multiple prior transfusions presents for prenatal care after her first-trimester visit. Her obstetric team requests additional immunohematology evaluation because of discrepant ABO/Rh serology and concern for weak or variant H antigen expression that can affect secretor status and blood-group compatibility in transfusion and perinatal management. A specimen of blood or saliva is collected and sent to a reference laboratory where the proprietary Navigator FUT2 Sequencing test (0186U) from Grifols Immunohematology Center is performed. The laboratory extracts DNA, sequences the specified FUT2 gene regions, and reports FUT2 genotype and predicted secretor phenotype. Results are used by transfusion medicine and obstetrics teams to clarify antigen expression in secretions, aid in blood product selection, minimize transfusion incompatibility risk, and inform neonatal risk assessment for hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn.
Coding Specifications
| Modifier | Description | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
26 | Professional component | Use when billing only the professional interpretation/reporting portion of the test separate from technical processing. |
TC |