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Gene expression profiling is a sophisticated laboratory procedure that analyzes the activity of specific genes in patients who exhibit stable symptoms indicative of obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD). This test aims to generate a risk score that reflects the patient's likelihood of having CAD based on various factors, including age, sex, and the levels of messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) from 23 targeted genes. The underlying connection between CAD and atherosclerotic diseases, such as stroke and myocardial infarction, is rooted in systemic inflammation, which involves various immune cells, including monocytes, macrophages, and CD4+ T-cells, as well as the presence of oxidized lipids. This inflammatory response can affect endothelial cells, vascular smooth muscle cells, and other circulating cells. The gene activity, which is the production of mRNA, can increase in response to environmental stimuli, indicating a biological response to inflammation. Elevated levels of the signature genes tested in this procedure are associated with systemic inflammation and immune-mediated diseases, including CAD. To perform this test, a blood sample is collected through a separately reportable venipuncture. The whole blood sample is then subjected to real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), a technique that allows for the assessment of gene expression by determining which genes are actively producing mRNA (and thus proteins) and which are not. The results of this analysis are processed using specialized computer software to generate an algorithmic risk score, which provides insights into the presence of inflammation and the potential risk of CAD in the patient.
© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.
The gene expression profiling procedure is indicated for patients who present with stable symptoms that suggest the presence of obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD). This test is particularly relevant for individuals who may be at risk for CAD due to various factors, including age and sex, and who require an assessment of their risk based on the expression levels of specific genes associated with systemic inflammation and immune-mediated diseases.
The procedure for gene expression profiling involves several critical steps to ensure accurate results. First, a blood sample is obtained from the patient through a venipuncture, which is a standard method for collecting blood. This sample is essential for the subsequent analysis. Once the blood is collected, it is processed to isolate the whole blood for testing. The real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) technique is then employed to analyze the expression of 23 targeted genes. RT-PCR is a powerful laboratory method that allows for the detection and quantification of mRNA levels, indicating which genes are actively being expressed. During the RT-PCR process, the mRNA from the collected blood sample is amplified, enabling the identification of gene activity. The results of this amplification are then analyzed using specialized computer software that applies an algorithm to generate a risk score. This score reflects the correlation between the levels of gene expression and the presence of systemic inflammation, which is linked to CAD. The entire procedure is designed to provide a comprehensive assessment of the patient's risk for coronary artery disease based on genetic expression patterns.
After the gene expression profiling procedure, patients may be advised to follow up with their healthcare provider to discuss the results of the risk score. The interpretation of the risk score is crucial, as it can guide further diagnostic evaluations or treatment options for managing coronary artery disease. There are no specific post-procedure care requirements mentioned; however, patients should be monitored for any potential complications related to the venipuncture site, such as bleeding or infection. It is also important for patients to maintain open communication with their healthcare provider regarding any new symptoms or concerns that may arise following the procedure.
| Short Descr | COR ARTERY DISEASE MRNA | Medium Descr | COR ART DISEASE MRNA GENE EXPRESSION 23 GENES | Long Descr | Coronary artery disease, mRNA, gene expression profiling by real-time RT-PCR of 23 genes, utilizing whole peripheral blood, algorithm reported as a risk score | Status Code | Statutory Exclusion (from MPFS, may be paid under other methodologies) | Global Days | XXX - Global Concept Does Not Apply | PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) | 9 - Not Applicable | Multiple Procedures (51) | 9 - Concept does not apply. | Bilateral Surgery (50) | 9 - Concept does not apply. | Physician Supervisions | 09 - Concept does not apply. | Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) | 9 - Concept does not apply. | Co-Surgeons (62) | 9 - Concept does not apply. | Team Surgery (66) | 9 - Concept does not apply. | Diagnostic Imaging Family | 99 - Concept Does Not Apply | CLIA Waived (QW) | No | APC Status Indicator | Service Paid under Fee Schedule or Payment System other than OPPS | Type of Service (TOS) | 5 - Diagnostic Laboratory | Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) | T1H - Lab tests - other (non-Medicare fee schedule) | MUE | 1 |
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| 2016-01-01 | Added | Added |
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