How To Use CPT Code 85445

CPT 85445 describes the test for induced Heinz bodies, which involves evaluating a blood specimen for the presence of denatured hemoglobin. 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 85445?

CPT 85445 can be used to describe the test for induced Heinz bodies, which involves evaluating a blood specimen for the presence of denatured hemoglobin. This code is used when a lab analyst performs the technical steps to smear a blood specimen on a slide, apply a specific stain, and evaluate the slide under a microscope to identify the presence of Heinz bodies. The formation of Heinz bodies indicates the degree of instability of hemoglobin.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 85445 is: ‘Heinz bodies; induced, acetyl phenylhydrazine.’

3. Procedure

1. The lab analyst collects a blood specimen from the patient using a venipuncture procedure.
2. The lab analyst administers acetyl phenylhydrazine to the blood specimen.
3. At specific time intervals, the lab analyst performs the technical steps to smear the blood specimen on a slide and apply a specific stain, such as crystal violet.
4. The lab analyst evaluates the slide under a microscope to identify the presence of Heinz bodies, which appear as inclusions in the red blood cells.
5. The degree of Heinz body formation indicates the degree of instability of hemoglobin.

4. Qualifying circumstances

The test for induced Heinz bodies using CPT 85445 is typically ordered by clinicians to aid in the diagnosis of certain unstable forms of hemoglobin, such as Hb Seattle or Hb Shepherd’s Bush. There are no specific qualifying circumstances for this code, as it is used to describe a laboratory test.

5. When to use CPT code 85445

CPT code 85445 should be used when a lab analyst performs the test for induced Heinz bodies on a blood specimen. This code is used to report the technical component of the test, and it should not be reported for a direct smear for Heinz bodies (CPT code 85441).

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 85445, the documentation should include:

• Indication for the test and the specific unstable forms of hemoglobin being evaluated
• Date and time of the test
• Details of the technical steps performed, including the use of acetyl phenylhydrazine and the specific stain applied
• Evaluation of the slide under a microscope and identification of Heinz bodies
• Signature of the lab analyst performing the test

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 85445, ensure that the test is performed by a qualified lab analyst. This code should not be reported with other codes for venipuncture or direct smear for Heinz bodies. It is important to distinguish between the different tests for Heinz bodies to ensure accurate coding.

8. Historical information

CPT 85445 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A lab analyst evaluating a blood specimen for the presence of induced Heinz bodies following the administration of acetyl phenylhydrazine.
2. A clinician ordering the test for induced Heinz bodies to aid in the diagnosis of a patient with suspected unstable forms of hemoglobin.
3. A lab technician performing the technical steps to smear a blood specimen on a slide, apply a specific stain, and evaluate the slide under a microscope for the presence of Heinz bodies.
4. A lab analyst documenting the formation of Heinz bodies in a blood specimen, indicating the degree of instability of hemoglobin.
5. A lab supervisor reviewing the results of the test for induced Heinz bodies and providing a report to the clinician for further interpretation.
6. A billing specialist ensuring that CPT code 85445 is accurately reported for the test for induced Heinz bodies performed by the lab.
7. A researcher studying the relationship between the presence of induced Heinz bodies and specific unstable forms of hemoglobin.
8. A quality control analyst verifying the accuracy and reliability of the test for induced Heinz bodies in the laboratory.
9. A lab analyst following strict protocols and safety measures while performing the test for induced Heinz bodies.
10. A clinician discussing the results of the test for induced Heinz bodies with the patient and developing a treatment plan based on the findings.