CPT® Code 81551

Oncology (prostate), promoter methylation profiling by real-time PCR of 3 genes (GSTP1, APC, RASSF1), utilizing formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue, algorithm reported as a likelihood of prostate cancer detection on repeat biopsy

The CPT® Code 81551 pertains to a specialized molecular genomic testing procedure focused on prostate cancer. This test employs promoter methylation profiling through real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to analyze three specific genes: GSTP1, APC, and RASSF1. The testing is conducted on formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue samples, which are commonly used in histopathological examinations. The primary objective of this procedure is to detect molecular changes associated with DNA methylation in the cells surrounding the prostate tumor. By identifying these methylation changes, the test can indicate a higher likelihood of prostate cancer presence. This is particularly significant in cases where previous histopathology biopsy specimens may have yielded false-negative results. The outcome of the test is reported as an algorithm score, which quantifies the likelihood of detecting prostate cancer upon repeat biopsy, thereby assisting healthcare providers in making informed decisions regarding patient management and further diagnostic evaluations.