National Coverage Analysis (NCA) Tracking Sheet

Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy for Brain Tumors

CAG-00141N

Issue

Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (MRS) measures in vivo concentrations of specific metabolites within a pre-determined volume of brain tissue. Using this information, MRS could potentially assist in the diagnosis of space occupying lesions in the brain.

The use of MRS is currently subject to a national noncoverage determination (Coverage Issues Manual Section 50-13).

On August 8, 2002 the American College of Radiology formally requested a National Coverage Determination (NCD) be made for MRS for the following indications:

  1. Cerebral tumor versus abscess or other infectious or inflammatory process, and

  2. Cerebral tumor versus radiation necrosis.

National Coverage Determinations

Benefit Category

Diagnostic Tests (other)
Physicians' Services

Requestor Information

Requestor Name Requestor Letter
American College of Radiology (ACR) N/A
N/A

Important Dates

Formal Request Accepted and Review Initiated
09/05/2002
Expected NCA Completion Date
01/29/2004
Public Comment Period
10/07/2002 - N/A
Proposed Decision Memo Due Date
Proposed Decision Memo Released
Proposed Decision Memo Public Comment Period
Decision Memo Released
01/29/2004

Contacts

Lead Analysts
Stuart Caplan, RN, MAS
Lead Medical Officers

Medicare Benefit Category Determination Date

Actions Taken

September 5, 2002

Formal request for a national coverage determination accepted.

November 4, 2002

CMS requested that the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) perform a technology assessment of magnetic resonance spectroscopy for brain tumors. CMS will post the technology assessment questions once finalized. After we receive the final technology assessment, we will post it on our website. The new due date for the decision memorandum will be 60 days after receipt of the technology assessment.

February 10, 2003

June 17, 2003

Technology Assessment posted. The new due date is 60 calendar days from posting date.

August 18, 2003

CMS extends the expected completion date to September 18, 2003 to allow for additional review and clearances.

October 30, 2003

CMS extends the expected completion date to November 28, 2003 to permit additional review and clearances.

January 29, 2004