Genetic testing to confirm a diagnosis of α-thalassemia is considered investigational.
Genetic testing of individuals with hemoglobin H disease (α-thalassemia intermedia) to determine prognosis is considered investigational.
Preconception (carrier) testing for α-thalassemia in prospective parents may be considered medically necessary when both parents have evidence of possible α-thalassemia (including α-thalassemia minor, hemoglobin H disease [α-thalassemia intermedia], or α-thalassemia minima [silent carrier] ) based on biochemical testing (see Policy Guidelines section).
Genetic testing for α-thalassemia in other clinical situations (recognizing that prenatal testing is not addressed in this policy) is considered investigational.
