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
CPT®
85525

CPT® Code 85525

Official Description

Heparin neutralization

© Copyright 2025 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The CPT® Code 85525 refers to the laboratory test known as heparin neutralization. This test is specifically designed to measure the clotting time of a blood sample after the neutralization of heparin, a common anticoagulant used in various medical settings. Heparin neutralization is an important procedure in the context of coagulation studies, particularly when evaluating a prolonged partial thromboplastin time (PTT). The test is often part of a series of assessments, including PTT, lupus anticoagulant PTT (LA-PTT), and dilute Russell viper venom time (DRVVT), which are ordered sequentially to investigate the underlying causes of abnormal coagulation results. The heparin neutralization test serves multiple purposes: it can help rule out heparin contamination in abnormal coagulation tests such as prothrombin time (PT), PTT, thrombin time (TT), and factor assays. Additionally, it may be utilized to assess liver function in patients who are undergoing heparin therapy. The procedure involves obtaining a blood sample, which can be collected through a separately reportable venipuncture or from a central line. The testing process includes the addition of heparinase, an enzyme that specifically degrades both unfractionated heparin (UF) and low molecular weight heparin (LMWH), allowing for accurate evaluation of the sample's coagulation properties before and after the neutralization process.

© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The heparin neutralization test (CPT® Code 85525) is indicated for several specific clinical scenarios, particularly when there is a need to evaluate coagulation status in the presence of heparin. The following are the primary indications for performing this test:

  • Prolonged Partial Thromboplastin Time (PTT) - The test is often ordered when a patient exhibits a prolonged PTT, which may indicate potential coagulation disorders.
  • Ruling Out Heparin Contamination - It is useful for determining whether heparin contamination is affecting the results of other coagulation tests, such as PT, PTT, thrombin time (TT), or factor assays.
  • Evaluation of Liver Function - The test may be performed to assess liver function in patients who are receiving heparin therapy, as liver function can influence coagulation pathways.
  • Coagulation Studies Prior to Testing - The procedure can be conducted before other coagulation studies to ensure that heparin does not interfere with the accuracy of the results, especially in samples drawn from heparinized central lines.

2. Procedure

The heparin neutralization procedure involves several critical steps to ensure accurate measurement of clotting time. The following outlines the procedural steps involved:

  • Step 1: Sample Collection - A blood sample is obtained from the patient, which can be done through a separately reportable venipuncture or by drawing from a central line. This initial step is crucial as it provides the sample needed for testing.
  • Step 2: Plasma Preparation - Once the blood sample is collected, the plasma is separated from the cellular components. This is typically achieved through centrifugation, which allows for the isolation of plasma for further testing.
  • Step 3: Heparinase Addition - The next step involves the addition of heparinase, an enzyme that specifically degrades both unfractionated heparin (UF) and low molecular weight heparin (LMWH). This step is essential for neutralizing the effects of heparin in the plasma sample.
  • Step 4: Clotting Time Measurement - After the addition of heparinase, the clotting time of the plasma is measured. This measurement is taken both before and after the addition of the enzyme to assess the impact of heparin on the coagulation process.

3. Post-Procedure

After the heparin neutralization test is completed, the results are analyzed to determine the clotting time and assess the presence of heparin in the sample. It is important to document the findings accurately, as they will inform further clinical decisions regarding the patient's coagulation status and management. There are typically no specific post-procedure care requirements for the patient, but the healthcare provider may need to monitor the patient for any signs of bleeding or other complications, especially if the patient is on anticoagulation therapy. Additionally, the results of the heparin neutralization test may lead to further testing or adjustments in the patient's treatment plan based on the findings.
Short Descr HEPARIN NEUTRALIZATION
Medium Descr HEPARIN NEUTRALIZATION
Long Descr Heparin neutralization
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
26 Professional component: certain procedures are a combination of a physician or other qualified health care professional component and a technical component. when the physician or other qualified health care professional component is reported separately, the service may be identified by adding modifier 26 to the usual procedure number.
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
Date
Action
Notes
1993-01-01 Added First appearance in code book in 1993.
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"