How To Use CPT Code 85366

CPT 85366 describes the detection of fibrin degradation products (FDP) through a paracoagulation test using patient plasma. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 85366?

CPT 85366 can be used to detect the presence or absence of fibrin degradation products (FDP) through a paracoagulation test using patient plasma. This test involves mixing patient plasma with a specific reagent that reacts with FDP, forming clot-like strands. A positive result indicates the presence of intravascular coagulation, while a negative result suggests its absence.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 85366 is: ‘Fibrin(ogen) degradation (split) products (FDP) (FSP); paracoagulation.’

3. Procedure

1. The lab analyst performs a paracoagulation test using patient plasma and a specific reagent.
2. The reagent reacts with fibrin degradation products (FDP) present in the patient’s plasma.
3. If FDP is present, clot-like strands form, indicating intravascular coagulation.
4. A negative result suggests the absence of intravascular coagulation.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 85366 is typically ordered to aid in the diagnosis of disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). However, it is rarely ordered as CPT 85362 is considered a more specific test for DIC. Clinicians may order CPT 85366 when they suspect intravascular coagulation but require further confirmation.

5. When to use CPT code 85366

CPT code 85366 should be used when a clinician wants to detect the presence or absence of fibrin degradation products (FDP) through a paracoagulation test using patient plasma. It is important to note that this test is not specific to any particular condition but can aid in the diagnosis of disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC).

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 85366, the clinician must document the following information:

• Patient’s plasma used for the test
• Specific reagent used for the paracoagulation reaction
• Date and time of the test
• Result of the test (positive or negative)
• Signature of the lab analyst performing the test

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 85366, ensure that the test is performed using patient plasma and a specific reagent. It is important to distinguish this test from other lab tests for fibrin degradation products (FDP) based on the lab methods used. Additional codes may be used for specimen collection, such as CPT code 36415 for venipuncture.

8. Historical information

CPT 85366 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1993. There was a code change on January 1, 2008, which updated the description of fibrin degradation products (FDP) (FSP) in the code.

9. Examples

1. A lab analyst performs a paracoagulation test using patient plasma to detect the presence or absence of fibrin degradation products (FDP).
2. A clinician orders CPT 85366 to aid in the diagnosis of disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) when other tests are inconclusive.
3. A patient’s plasma is mixed with a specific reagent, and the formation of clot-like strands indicates the presence of intravascular coagulation.
4. A negative result from CPT 85366 suggests the absence of intravascular coagulation.
5. A lab analyst performs a paracoagulation test using patient plasma and confirms the presence of fibrin degradation products (FDP).
6. A clinician orders CPT 85366 to rule out disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) in a patient with suspected coagulation abnormalities.
7. A patient’s plasma is tested using a specific reagent, and the absence of clot-like strands indicates the absence of intravascular coagulation.
8. CPT 85366 is used to detect fibrin degradation products (FDP) in a patient’s plasma, providing valuable information for the diagnosis and management of coagulation disorders.
9. A lab analyst performs a paracoagulation test using patient plasma and confirms the absence of fibrin degradation products (FDP).
10. A clinician orders CPT 85366 to rule out disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) in a patient with suspected bleeding disorders.