Summary & Overview
CPT 0329U: Oncomap ExTra NGS Tumor and Matched Normal Profiling
CPT code 0329U is a Proprietary Laboratory Analyses (PLA) CPT code for Oncomap™ ExTra, a comprehensive next‑generation sequencing (NGS) assay that performs whole exome DNA sequencing of solid tumor–associated genes and whole transcriptome RNA expression profiling, with matched normal DNA sequencing from blood or saliva. The code designates a single manufacturer‑specific test and matters nationally because it standardizes reporting for a high‑complexity molecular diagnostic that informs oncology care, clinical trial eligibility, and targeted therapy selection.
Key payers covered in this analysis include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. The publication outlines payer coverage patterns, coding and billing considerations for PLA codes, and clinical context for use of comprehensive tumor profiling in solid tumors.
Readers will learn the clinical scope of the test, typical sites of service, and where to find information needed for claims submission. The report provides benchmark coverage summaries, policy highlights affecting PLA codes, and concise clinical context on how whole exome and whole transcriptome profiling with matched normal sequencing is used in oncology diagnostics. Data not available in the input is noted where applicable.
Billing Code Overview
CPT code 0329U is a Proprietary Laboratory Analyses (PLA) code specifically reported for Oncomap™ ExTra from Genomic Health Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Exact Sciences Inc. The test uses next‑generation sequencing (NGS) to perform whole exome DNA sequencing of genes associated with solid tumor mutations and whole transcriptome RNA expression profiling. The procedure also sequences DNA from blood or saliva to distinguish germline variants from tumor‑associated mutations.
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Service type: Comprehensive tumor profiling using NGS, including tumor DNA (whole exome), tumor RNA (whole transcriptome), and matched normal DNA from blood or saliva.
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Typical site of service: Clinical laboratories and specialized molecular diagnostics laboratories; testing is performed on tumor tissue with accompanying blood or saliva specimen collection.
Clinical & Coding Specifications
Clinical Context
A 62-year-old patient with a newly diagnosed metastatic adenocarcinoma of the lung undergoes a core needle tumor biopsy. The oncology team orders comprehensive tumor profiling to guide targeted therapy and immunotherapy decisions. Tissue is sent to the reference laboratory performing the proprietary Oncomap™ ExTra assay (0329U). The laboratory performs next-generation sequencing of tumor DNA (whole exome) and RNA (whole transcriptome) from the biopsy specimen and concurrently sequences germline DNA from a blood or saliva sample to exclude non-tumor (constitutional) variants. Results include somatic mutation profiling, transcriptomic signatures, and a report correlating actionable alterations to potential targeted agents or clinical trials. Typical workflow steps: preauthorization and order entry by the oncology clinic, specimen collection (tumor tissue and blood/saliva), courier to the specialty laboratory, laboratory processing and bioinformatics analysis, report generation, and results review by the treating oncologist to inform systemic therapy selection or genetic counseling referral.
Coding Specifications
| Modifier | Description | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
26 | Professional component | When billing only the professional (interpretive) component if the laboratory separates technical and professional charges and the payer requires it. |