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The CPT® Code 85385 refers to a laboratory test that measures fibrinogen antigen levels in the blood. Fibrinogen is a crucial protein involved in the coagulation process, specifically classified as coagulation factor I, which is synthesized in the liver. This protein plays a vital role in hemostasis, the process that prevents and stops bleeding. During the clotting cascade, fibrinogen is converted from its soluble form into insoluble fibrin threads, which weave together to form a stable clot at the site of vascular injury, effectively halting blood loss. The fibrinogen antigen test (CPT® Code 85385) quantifies the amount of fibrinogen present in the bloodstream, providing essential information about the body’s ability to form clots. This test is often performed alongside the fibrinogen activity test (CPT® Code 85384), which assesses the functional capacity of the fibrinogen present. Together, these tests are instrumental in diagnosing and monitoring conditions associated with abnormal bleeding or clotting, such as unexplained bleeding episodes, prolonged bleeding times in tests like prothrombin time (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (PTT), and hereditary fibrinogen deficiencies. Additionally, they may be utilized to evaluate an individual's risk for cardiovascular diseases. The sample for this test is typically obtained through venipuncture, and the analysis is conducted on platelet-poor plasma using advanced techniques such as electromagnetic mechanical clot detection.
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The fibrinogen antigen test (CPT® Code 85385) is indicated for several clinical scenarios, particularly when there are concerns regarding bleeding or clotting disorders. The following conditions may warrant the performance of this test:
The procedure for conducting the fibrinogen antigen test (CPT® Code 85385) involves several key steps to ensure accurate measurement of fibrinogen levels in the blood. First, a qualified healthcare professional will perform venipuncture to obtain a blood sample from the patient. This process involves inserting a needle into a vein, typically in the arm, to draw blood into a collection tube. It is essential that the blood sample is collected in a manner that minimizes contamination and preserves the integrity of the plasma for testing. Once the blood is collected, it is processed to separate the plasma from the cellular components. The platelet-poor plasma is then subjected to testing using electromagnetic mechanical clot detection methods. This advanced technique allows for precise measurement of the fibrinogen antigen levels, providing critical data regarding the patient's coagulation status. The results of this test will be interpreted in conjunction with the fibrinogen activity test (CPT® Code 85384) to provide a comprehensive assessment of the patient's fibrinogen functionality and overall hemostatic capability.
After the fibrinogen antigen test (CPT® Code 85385) is performed, there are generally no specific post-procedure care requirements for the patient. However, it is advisable for the patient to remain hydrated and to follow any additional instructions provided by the healthcare professional. The results of the test will typically be reviewed by the physician, who will discuss the findings with the patient and determine if any further diagnostic testing or treatment is necessary based on the fibrinogen levels and the clinical context. Patients may be advised to monitor for any unusual symptoms, such as excessive bleeding or bruising, and to report these to their healthcare provider promptly. Overall, the test is a critical component in the evaluation of coagulation disorders and helps guide further management and treatment decisions.
| Short Descr | FIBRINOGEN ANTIGEN | Medium Descr | FIBRINOGEN ANTIGEN | Long Descr | Fibrinogen; antigen | Status Code | Statutory Exclusion (from MPFS, may be paid under other methodologies) | Global Days | XXX - Global Concept Does Not Apply | PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) | 9 - Not Applicable | Multiple Procedures (51) | 9 - Concept does not apply. | Bilateral Surgery (50) | 9 - Concept does not apply. | Physician Supervisions | 09 - Concept does not apply. | Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) | 9 - Concept does not apply. | Co-Surgeons (62) | 9 - Concept does not apply. | Team Surgery (66) | 9 - Concept does not apply. | Diagnostic Imaging Family | 99 - Concept Does Not Apply | CLIA Waived (QW) | No | APC Status Indicator | Conditionally packaged laboratory tests | Type of Service (TOS) | 5 - Diagnostic Laboratory | Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) | T1H - Lab tests - other (non-Medicare fee schedule) | MUE | 1 | CCS Clinical Classification | 233 - Laboratory - Chemistry and Hematology |
| 90 | Reference (outside) laboratory: when laboratory procedures are performed by a party other than the treating or reporting physician or other qualified health care professional, the procedure may be identified by adding modifier 90 to the usual procedure number. | GA | Waiver of liability statement issued as required by payer policy, individual case | GZ | Item or service expected to be denied as not reasonable and necessary | 91 | Repeat clinical diagnostic laboratory test: in the course of treatment of the patient, it may be necessary to repeat the same laboratory test on the same day to obtain subsequent (multiple) test results. under these circumstances, the laboratory test performed can be identified by its usual procedure number and the addition of modifier 91. note: this modifier may not be used when tests are rerun to confirm initial results; due to testing problems with specimens or equipment; or for any other reason when a normal, one-time, reportable result is all that is required. this modifier may not be used when other code(s) describe a series of test results (eg, glucose tolerance tests, evocative/suppression testing). this modifier may only be used for laboratory test(s) performed more than once on the same day on the same patient. | AY | Item or service furnished to an esrd patient that is not for the treatment of esrd | GW | Service not related to the hospice patient's terminal condition | GY | Item or service statutorily excluded, does not meet the definition of any medicare benefit or, for non-medicare insurers, is not a contract benefit |
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| 2013-01-01 | Changed | Short Descriptor changed. |
| 1993-01-01 | Added | First appearance in code book in 1993. |
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