CPT® Code 81538

Oncology (lung), mass spectrometric 8-protein signature, including amyloid A, utilizing serum, prognostic and predictive algorithm reported as good versus poor overall survival

The CPT® Code 81538 refers to a specialized laboratory test utilized in the field of oncology, specifically for lung cancer. This test is designed to measure a specific set of eight proteins present in the serum of patients diagnosed with lung cancer. The primary purpose of this analysis is to generate a prognostic and predictive algorithm score that indicates the likelihood of overall survival for the patient. In the context of cancer, the term 'proteome' refers to the complete set of proteins that are produced by cancer cells, which can vary based on the tumor's genetic makeup and can change in response to various stressors or treatments. The eight proteins that are analyzed in this test include Serum amyloid protein A, Haptoglobin alpha subunit, Hepatocyte growth factor, Transthyretin, Alpha-1 acid glycoprotein 1 and 2, Apolipoprotein A4 peptides, Fibrinogen alpha chain, and Limbin. The testing process employs advanced mass spectrometry techniques, specifically surface-enhanced laser desorption/ionization – time of flight mass spectrometry (SELDI-TOF-MS) or matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI-MS). These methods allow for the precise identification and quantification of the spectral peaks corresponding to the eight proteins in the serum samples. By comparing the results from lung cancer patients to a normal control group, the test can determine the relative changes in protein levels. The resulting algorithm score categorizes patients into two groups: those with a good overall survival prognosis (≥5 years) and those with a poor overall survival prognosis (<5 years). This information is crucial for clinicians in making informed decisions regarding patient management and treatment strategies.