2025 Laboratory CPT® Coding Analysis with Insider Tips: Molecular and Genomic Advancements

The new year rang in with a heavy storm of new coding changes for laboratory and pathology coding. The first half of the year is a critical time for coding professionals to review coding updates for correct reporting and gain an accurate understanding. With Medical Laboratory Professionals Week (MLPW) approaching this month, now is an excellent time to shine a spotlight on coding nuances that professionals may encounter. Our experts have prepared exclusive professional tips for elevated success. For 2025, key lab coding updates include new molecular pathology and MAAA codes, plus revisions to genomic sequencing procedures. CPT® 81195 now enables optical genome mapping for hematologic malignancies, while new MAAA codes cover bacterial vaginosis detection (81515), post-transplant monitoring (81558), and CNS tumor classification (0020M). Let’s examine the details of these codes and more below.

Cracking into New Codes for 2025

For 2025, the following molecular pathology Tier 1 code was added:

Note that this new code was established to detect structural and copy number variations related to hematological malignancies through the use of optical genome mapping (OGM) in cytogenomic genome-wide analysis.

The following Multianalyte Assays with Algorithmic Analyses (MAAA) codes were also added for 2025:

CPT code 81515 is a key update for 2025, replacing PLA code 0352U for detecting bacterial vaginosis–associated bacteria. This test also separately identifies Candida species, Candida glabrata/Candida krusei, and Trichomonas vaginalis. Notably, it has been added to the list of approved CLIA-waived tests, effective January 1, 2025, when reported with modifier QW (MLN Matters Number: MM13858).

For post-transplant monitoring, CPT code 81558 provides gene expression profiling to assess transplant rejection risk. Be sure to check payer policies for coverage details. Additionally, the new MAAA code 0020M, known as the Epignostix CNS Tumor Methylation Classifier, uses a probability algorithm to classify CNS tumors based on a reference set of known tumor characteristics.

CPT code 81515 for detection of bacterial vaginosis–associated bacteria with an algorithm reported as detected or not detected and separate detection of Candida species, Candida glabrata/Candida krusei, and Trichomonas vaginalis, replaces PLA code 0352U, which was deleted for 2025. Additionally, understand that MLN Matters Number: MM13858 identifies CPT 81515 as being added to the list of approved CLIA waived tests effective January 1, 2025, when reported with modifier QW.

For reporting post-transplant monitoring by gene expression profiles to rule out transplant rejection, refer to CPT code 81558. Note: Be certain to review payer policies regarding coverage for this new code.

MAAA code 0020M—Epignostix CNS Tumor Methylation Classifier—utilizes a probability algorithm for determining the likelihood that the CNS tumor belongs to a specific, pre-defined subclass of tumors based on a reference set of known tumor characteristics.

For additional details on the MAAA code set including proprietary name and clinical laboratory or manufacturer, refer to Appendix O of the AMA CPT Manual. For the latest updates, go to https://www.ama-assn.org/practice-management/cpt/administrative-multianalyte-assays-algorithmic-analyses-codes.

Revised Codes for 2025

The following genomic sequencing procedures (GSP) were revised for 2025:

Why did these codes receive revisions? These codes were revised to include duplication/deletion analysis and also revalued to crosswalk to PLA code 0129U as a result of the deletions to CPT codes 81433, 81436 and 81438 that follow. Stay tuned for further coding and policy updates throughout this year.

CELEBRATE LABORATORY PROFESSIONALS WEEK WITH EXCLUSIVE OFFERS AND EXPERT INSIDER TIPS!

Every year, billions of medical tests are performed in the United States, informing patient care and contributing to the health outcomes of hundreds of millions of Americans. Our healthcare system cannot survive without the dedicated, highly trained, behind-the-scenes professionals who comprise the laboratory worker community. April 20–26 is Laboratory Medical Professionals Week; a time reserved to honor the commitment of these professionals and recognize the critical role they play in the health of every patient across the nation.

To show our gratitude, MedLearn Publishing will have two exclusive offers for the month of April:

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