Summary & Overview
HCPCS P9052: HLA-Matched, Leukocyte-Reduced Platelet Unit (Apheresis)
HCPCS Level II code P9052 denotes a single unit of HLA-matched, leukocyte-reduced platelets collected by apheresis/pheresis. This code identifies a specialized blood product used for patients with platelet refractoriness or alloimmunization where HLA matching and leukocyte reduction are clinically indicated. Nationally, the code matters because it captures use of higher-acuity transfusion products that have cost, supply, and clinical implications across hospital transfusion services and specialized outpatient centers.
Key payers examined include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find a concise overview of what the code represents, payer coverage landscape, and the clinical context for use. The publication outlines typical billing considerations, where the service is performed, and operational implications for blood banks and transfusion services. It also highlights benchmarks and policy-relevant points such as coverage variability, coding specificity, and the role of matched platelet products in managing alloimmunized patients.
Data not available in the input for payer-specific rates, associated taxonomies, ICD-10 pairings, and related codes.
Billing Code Overview
HCPCS Level II code P9052 describes platelet units that are HLA-matched and leukocyte-reduced, collected by apheresis/pheresis, billed per unit. The service involves preparation and provision of specialized platelet transfusion products intended to reduce alloimmunization and improve compatibility for patients who require antigen-matched platelets.
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Service type: Apheresis/pheresis collection and processing of HLA-matched, leukocyte-reduced platelet units
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Typical site of service: Hospital transfusion services, blood banks, and specialized outpatient infusion or transfusion centers
Clinical & Coding Specifications
Clinical Context
A 42-year-old patient with a history of immune-mediated platelet refractoriness secondary to alloimmunization requires transfusion of HLA-matched, leukocyte-reduced apheresis platelets. The clinical workflow begins with hematology consultation and laboratory testing to document platelet refractoriness and perform HLA antibody and/or platelet crossmatch testing. Once HLA compatibility is established, the transfusion service orders P9052 for each unit of HLA-matched, leukocyte-reduced, apheresis-derived platelets. Donor selection and apheresis collection occur in the blood bank or donor center; units are processed to remove leukocytes and labeled as HLA-matched. The transfusion is administered in an inpatient ward, oncology infusion center, or outpatient transfusion clinic with pre-transfusion vitals, verification of patient identity and consent, and transfusion monitoring for transfusion reactions. Post-transfusion platelet counts and clinical assessment guide further transfusion needs. Documentation includes indication, HLA matching documentation, unit lot numbers, pre- and post-transfusion platelet counts, and any adverse events.
Coding Specifications
| Modifier | Description | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
00 | No modifiers | Used when no specific modifier applies to the service |