Application Detail
Description of Medical Service
Targeted genotyping, using polymerase chain reaction (PCR), of the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) genes in individuals with epilepsy who are scheduled to commence treatment with carbamazepine. The purpose of the test will be to determine whether the individual has specific variants of the gene that are associated with a higher risk of sensitivity, and therefore adverse reactions, to the drug.Description of Medical Condition
Epilepsy is a chronic neurological condition characterised by recurrent seizures that are caused by a disruption of the electrical activity in the brain. Carbamazepine is an anticonvulsant medication that can be used in the first-line treatment of epilepsy. Although associated with milder side effects such as dizziness, drowsiness, ataxia, nausea, and vomiting, carbamazepine can also cause more severe adverse reactions, including some that are potentially lethal. Hypersensitivity to carbamazepine is associated with variants in the human leukocyte antigen genes (HLA-A and HLA-B).Reason for Application
New MBS itemMedical Service Type
Investigative technologyPrevious Application Number/s
Not ApplicableAssociated Documentation
Application Summary and PICO Set
Application Summary (PDF 395 KB)Application Summary (Word 25 KB)
PICO Set Document (PDF 1497 KB)
PICO Set Document (Word 386 KB)
Consultation Survey
Consultation SurveyPASC Consultation
PASC consultation closed 15 March 2024
MSAC Consultation
MSAC consultation closes Friday 14 February 2025
For further information please refer to PASC, ESC, MSAC Key Dates
For further information on the consultation process please refer to MSAC Consultation Process
PICO Confirmation
PICO Confirmation (PDF 561 KB)PICO Confirmation (Word 297 KB)