CPT® Code 85370

1. Indications

The quantitative measurement of fibrin(ogen) degradation products (FDP) is indicated in various clinical scenarios where the assessment of coagulation status is necessary. Elevated levels of FDP can be indicative of several serious conditions, including:

• Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC) - A serious condition characterized by the widespread activation of the clotting cascade, leading to the formation of blood clots throughout the small blood vessels.
• Thromboembolic Events - Conditions where blood clots form in a blood vessel and can travel to obstruct blood flow in other areas, such as deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism.
• Acute Myocardial Infarction - Commonly known as a heart attack, this occurs when blood flow to a part of the heart is blocked, causing damage to the heart muscle.
• Preeclampsia - A pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure and signs of damage to another organ system, often the kidneys.
• Renal Failure - A condition in which the kidneys lose the ability to filter waste products from the blood effectively.
• Sepsis/Shock - A life-threatening condition that arises when the body's response to infection causes injury to its tissues and organs, potentially leading to organ failure.
• Post-Operative Status - Monitoring of coagulation status following surgical procedures, where the risk of clot formation may be altered.
• Strenuous Exercise - Physical activity that may lead to temporary increases in FDP levels due to the physiological stress placed on the body.

2. Procedure

The procedure for measuring fibrin(ogen) degradation products (FDP) involves several key steps to ensure accurate results. First, a qualified healthcare professional performs venipuncture to obtain a blood sample from the patient. This step is crucial as it allows for the collection of a sufficient volume of blood necessary for testing. The blood sample is then processed in the laboratory, where it is subjected to an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). This specific assay is designed to detect and quantify the levels of FDP in the sample. The ELISA method involves the use of antibodies that specifically bind to the fibrin degradation products, allowing for their measurement. The results of this quantitative test provide valuable information regarding the patient's coagulation status and can assist in diagnosing various medical conditions associated with abnormal fibrin degradation.

3. Post-Procedure

After the procedure, the patient may experience minimal discomfort at the venipuncture site, which typically resolves quickly. There are no specific post-procedure care instructions required for the patient following the blood draw, but it is advisable to monitor the site for any signs of excessive bleeding or infection. The laboratory will analyze the sample and report the quantitative levels of FDP, which will be interpreted by the healthcare provider in the context of the patient's clinical condition. Follow-up may be necessary depending on the results and the underlying reasons for the test.