© Copyright 2025 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.
The CPT® Code 85475 refers to a laboratory test known as the Hemolysin, acid test, commonly referred to as the Ham test. This test is specifically designed to evaluate the condition and fragility of red blood cells (RBCs) when exposed to a mild acid solution. The procedure involves the addition of this acid to a blood sample, which allows healthcare professionals to observe how the RBCs respond, particularly in terms of their integrity and stability. The Ham test is particularly significant in diagnosing various blood disorders, both acquired and inherited. One notable condition that may be diagnosed through this test is dyserythropoietic anemia type II. This specific type of anemia is characterized by ineffective erythropoiesis, which leads to anemia and is associated with distinctive morphological abnormalities in the erythrocytes found in the bone marrow. To perform the test, a blood sample is collected, typically through a separately reportable venipuncture, ensuring that the sample is suitable for analysis. Both serum and whole blood are subjected to testing, which utilizes complement lysis techniques alongside visual identification methods to assess the fragility of the red blood cells accurately.
© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.
The Ham test (CPT® Code 85475) is indicated for the evaluation of conditions related to the fragility of red blood cells (RBCs) and is particularly useful in diagnosing specific blood disorders. The following are the primary indications for performing this test:
The procedure for the Ham test involves several critical steps to ensure accurate results. The following outlines the procedural steps involved:
After the Ham test is completed, there are no specific post-procedure care requirements mentioned. However, it is essential for healthcare professionals to monitor the patient for any potential reactions to the blood draw. The results of the test will be analyzed and interpreted by the healthcare provider, who will then discuss the findings with the patient and determine any necessary follow-up actions based on the results.
| Short Descr | HEMOLYSIN ACID | Medium Descr | HEMOLYSIN ACID | Long Descr | Hemolysin, acid | 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. |
|
Date
|
Action
|
Notes
|
|---|---|---|
| 2013-01-01 | Changed | Short Descriptor changed. |
| 1993-01-01 | Added | First appearance in code book in 1993. |
Get instant expert-level medical coding assistance.