Coding Ahead
CasePilot
Medical Coding Assistant
Case2Code
Search and Code Lookup Tool
RedactPHI
HIPAA-Compliant PHI Redaction
DetectICD10CM
ICD-10-CM Code Detection
Log in Register free account
1 code page views remaining. Guest accounts are limited to 1 page view. Register free account to get 5 more views.
Log in Register free account

Official Description

Coagulation and fibrinolysis, functional activity, not otherwise specified (eg, ADAMTS-13), each analyte

© Copyright 2025 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The CPT® Code 85397 pertains to the evaluation of coagulation and fibrinolysis functional activity, specifically for analytes that are not otherwise specified, such as ADAMTS-13. This procedure involves obtaining a blood sample through a venipuncture, which is a method of drawing blood from a vein. Coagulation refers to the physiological process by which blood changes from a liquid to a gel, forming a blood clot, while fibrinolysis is the process that breaks down fibrin in blood clots, allowing for the restoration of normal blood flow. The balance between these two processes is crucial for maintaining hemostasis, and any disruption can lead to coagulation disorders. ADAMTS-13 is a specific protease that plays a significant role in the regulation of blood clotting. The presence of certain autoantibodies, particularly immunoglobulin G (IgG) against ADAMTS-13, can inhibit its activity, leading to conditions such as thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP), a serious blood disorder characterized by the formation of small blood clots throughout the body. The testing for ADAMTS-13 is typically performed using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), which quantitatively measures the functional activity of this protease. Additionally, this code can be used for testing other analytes or proteins involved in coagulation and fibrinolysis, utilizing various assay methods as appropriate. It is important to report code 85397 for each analyte that is tested in the evaluation process.

© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The procedure associated with CPT® Code 85397 is indicated for the evaluation of coagulation and fibrinolysis functional activity in patients who may be experiencing coagulation disorders. Specific indications for this testing include:

  • Evaluation of Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (TTP) - Testing for the presence of autoantibodies against ADAMTS-13, which may contribute to the development of TTP.
  • Assessment of Coagulation Disorders - To investigate abnormalities in blood clotting and breakdown processes that may lead to excessive bleeding or thrombosis.
  • Monitoring of Patients - For patients with known coagulation disorders, to monitor the functional activity of specific analytes over time.

2. Procedure

The procedure for CPT® Code 85397 involves several key steps to ensure accurate testing of coagulation and fibrinolysis functional activity:

  • Step 1: Venipuncture - A qualified healthcare professional performs a venipuncture to obtain a blood sample from the patient. This is done using a sterile technique to minimize the risk of infection and ensure the integrity of the sample.
  • Step 2: Sample Preparation - The collected blood sample is processed appropriately, which may involve centrifugation to separate plasma from cellular components. This step is crucial for obtaining a clear sample for analysis.
  • Step 3: Assay Selection - Depending on the analyte being tested, an appropriate assay method is selected. For ADAMTS-13, an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) is commonly used to measure its functional activity.
  • Step 4: Testing - The selected assay is performed according to established laboratory protocols. This involves adding specific reagents to the sample and measuring the reaction to determine the functional activity of the analyte.
  • Step 5: Result Interpretation - Once testing is complete, the results are analyzed and interpreted by qualified laboratory personnel. The findings are then reported to the requesting physician for further clinical decision-making.

3. Post-Procedure

After the procedure associated with CPT® Code 85397, patients may be advised on post-venipuncture care, which typically includes applying pressure to the puncture site to minimize bleeding and preventing the use of the affected arm for strenuous activities for a short period. The results of the coagulation and fibrinolysis tests will be communicated to the healthcare provider, who will discuss the implications of the findings with the patient. Depending on the results, further diagnostic testing or treatment may be necessary to address any identified coagulation disorders.

Short Descr CLOTTING FUNCT ACTIVITY
Medium Descr COAGJ&FIBRINOLYSIS FUNCTIONAL ACTV NOS EA ANAL
Long Descr Coagulation and fibrinolysis, functional activity, not otherwise specified (eg, ADAMTS-13), each analyte
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 2
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.
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.
Q1 Routine clinical service provided in a clinical research study that is in an approved clinical research study
Date
Action
Notes
2013-01-01 Changed Medium Descriptor changed.
2009-01-01 Added -
Code
Description
Code
Description
CasePilot

Get instant expert-level medical coding assistance.

Ask about:
CPT Codes Guidelines Modifiers Crosswalks NCCI Edits Compliance Medicare Coverage
Example: "What is CPT code 99213?" or "Guidelines for E/M services"