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The CPT® Code 85810 refers to the procedure of measuring blood viscosity, which is a critical assessment in understanding the flow characteristics of blood within the circulatory system. Viscosity, in a general sense, is a measure of a fluid's resistance to flow when subjected to a shearing force. In the context of blood, viscosity specifically pertains to the internal friction that occurs between the blood itself and the walls of the blood vessels. This property is influenced by several factors, including hematocrit levels, temperature, and the rate of blood flow. Testing for blood viscosity is particularly important in patients who may be suffering from various cardiac or hematological conditions. For instance, individuals with ischemic heart disease, stroke, sickle cell anemia, or polycythemia may experience increased blood viscosity, which can lead to serious health complications. The viscosity test can be conducted on either whole blood or serum, utilizing a specialized instrument known as a cone-plate viscometer. This device allows for precise measurement of viscosity, providing valuable information that can aid in the diagnosis and management of these conditions.
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The viscosity test is indicated for patients presenting with specific symptoms or conditions that may affect blood flow and overall cardiovascular health. The following are the primary indications for performing this procedure:
The procedure for measuring blood viscosity involves several key steps to ensure accurate results. The following outlines the procedural steps:
After the viscosity test is completed, the patient may be monitored for any immediate reactions, although the procedure is generally safe and well-tolerated. The results of the viscosity test will be documented and communicated to the healthcare provider, who will interpret the findings in conjunction with other clinical data. Depending on the results, further diagnostic testing or treatment may be recommended to address any underlying conditions that could be contributing to abnormal blood viscosity levels. Patients may be advised to follow up with their healthcare provider to discuss the implications of the test results and any necessary next steps in their care.
| Short Descr | BLOOD VISCOSITY EXAMINATION | Medium Descr | VISCOSITY | Long Descr | Viscosity | 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. | Q4 | Service for ordering/referring physician qualifies as a service exemption | 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. | CC | Procedure code change (use 'cc' when the procedure code submitted was changed either for administrative reasons or because an incorrect code was filed) | GW | Service not related to the hospice patient's terminal condition | GZ | Item or service expected to be denied as not reasonable and necessary | RT | Right side (used to identify procedures performed on the right side of the body) |
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| Pre-1990 | Added | Code added. |
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