Tumor Markers (CPB 0352, reviewed 2026-03-27)
Aetna considers tumor marker testing medically necessary, unless otherwise stated, for the indication-specific tumor markers listed in the policy, such as ALK testing for non-small cell lung cancer, BRAF testing for metastatic colorectal cancer, and CA 125 testing for epithelial ovarian, fallopian tube or primary peritoneal cancer. Breast adjuvant tests (Oncotype Dx Breast, MammaPrint, Breast Cancer Index, EndoPredict, PAM50 ROR, and uPA with PAI-1) are medically necessary only when the breast cancer is nonmetastatic, estrogen receptor positive and HER2 negative, adjuvant chemotherapy is not precluded by another factor, and the member and physician have discussed the potential results and agree to use them to guide therapy. Aetna considers circulating tumor cell assays for all indications, ctDNA tests for any indication other than small non-small cell lung cancer panels, MRD testing for indications not listed as medically necessary, and use of more than one type of breast adjuvant test experimental, investigational, or unproven.