Summary & Overview
CPT 81456: Genomic RNA Panel, 51+ Genes
Headline: Broad RNA Genomic Panel CPT 81456 Captures 51+ Genes for Tumor and Bone Marrow Analysis
Lead: CPT 81456 denotes a comprehensive RNA-based genomic sequencing panel that evaluates 51 or more genes, providing detailed molecular information for tumor and bone marrow specimens. This test is part of the expanding suite of multianalyte genomic assays that support precision oncology and advanced diagnostic workflows.
What this code represents and why it matters: CPT 81456 describes a high-complexity genomic sequencing procedure focused on RNA alterations across a large gene set. These panels are influential nationally as they contribute to targeted treatment selection, clinical trial eligibility, and refined prognostic assessment for patients with malignancies.
Key payers covered: The analysis addresses coverage by Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, and UnitedHealthcare.
Overview of content: Readers will find a concise explanation of the clinical and billing scope of CPT 81456, comparison to closely related genomic RNA and combined DNA/RNA panel codes, and operational context for laboratory-based service delivery. The publication summarizes common billing modifiers, associated clinical taxonomies and diagnostic frameworks, and related CPT codes for RNA and combined DNA/RNA panels. It also flags where input data is missing for service line specifics.
What readers will learn: Clear definitions of the procedure and service setting, how CPT 81456 relates to adjacent codes, the payer landscape for major national commercial plans, and where to find supporting diagnosis categories that establish medical necessity. Data not available in the input is identified explicitly.
CPT Code Overview
CPT 81456 is a genomic sequencing analysis panel that detects RNA alterations across 51 or more genes, commonly performed for tumor or bone marrow specimens. This code represents a comprehensive RNA-based multigene panel used to identify clinically relevant genomic alterations that can inform diagnosis, prognosis, or targeted therapy selection.
Service type: Genomic Sequencing Procedures and Other Molecular Multianalyte Assays
Typical site of service: Laboratory (e.g., independent or hospital reference lab)
Clinical & Coding Specifications
Clinical Context
A patient with a suspected or confirmed solid organ malignancy (examples include primary lung, liver, colorectal, breast, or metastatic disease) undergoes tissue biopsy or resection. The specimen is sent to a reference molecular pathology laboratory for comprehensive RNA-based genomic sequencing to identify gene fusions, splice variants, or other RNA alterations across a broad panel of genes. The laboratory performs nucleic acid extraction, library preparation, sequencing, and bioinformatic analysis, and a pathologist or molecular geneticist interprets and issues a report to the treating oncology team for potential therapeutic targeting, clinical trial eligibility, or prognostic information.
Coding Specifications
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Modifier
26: Professional component — used when billing for the interpretation and reporting component performed by a qualified professional (e.g., pathologist or molecular geneticist). -
Modifier
TC: Technical component — used when billing for the laboratory technical services (e.g., specimen processing, sequencing, instrumentation, and technician labor) without the professional interpretation.
Associated Provider Taxonomies
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