2025 CPT code 85049
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Deletion Date: N/A Pathology and Laboratory Procedures - Automated Platelet Count Hematology and Coagulation Procedures Feed
Automated platelet count using an automated cell counter.
Modifiers may be applicable depending on the circumstances of service. Consult the CPT manual for appropriate modifier use.
Medical necessity for an automated platelet count (85049) is established when there is clinical suspicion of bleeding disorders, need for monitoring of therapeutic effects (e.g., chemotherapy), assessment of pre-operative coagulation status or evaluation of other conditions impacting platelet levels.
The clinical responsibility lies with the laboratory analyst who performs all technical steps of the test, from sample verification to result review. The ordering physician is responsible for medical decision-making based on the results.
In simple words: This lab test measures the number of platelets in your blood using a machine. Platelets help your blood clot. This test can help doctors understand bleeding problems, check how cancer treatments are working, and see how well your blood clots before surgery.
This CPT code (85049) represents the performance of an automated platelet count on a whole blood sample.The procedure involves the use of automated hematologic analyzers, typically employing methods such as electrical impedance or flow cytometry, to quantify platelets in a blood sample. Pre-analytical steps include verifying sample adequacy and mixing. Post-analytical steps involve review of results for acceptability.This test is relevant in assessing bleeding disorders, monitoring antineoplastic treatment effects, and evaluating pre-surgical coagulation status.
Example 1: A patient presents with symptoms suggestive of thrombocytopenia (low platelet count).An automated platelet count (85049) is ordered to confirm the diagnosis and guide treatment., A patient undergoing chemotherapy for leukemia requires regular monitoring of platelet counts.Serial automated platelet counts (85049) are performed to assess treatment response and adjust medication as needed., A patient scheduled for major surgery undergoes pre-operative testing, including an automated platelet count (85049), to evaluate coagulation status and assess surgical risk.
** Always verify the accuracy of the code and its application with current CPT guidelines and payer specific requirements.This information is for general guidance only and should not be construed as definitive medical advice or billing instructions.
- Revenue Code: T1D (LAB TESTS - BLOOD COUNTS)
- RVU: Information on Relative Value Units (RVUs) not available in provided data. Consult the most current Medicare Physician Fee Schedule.
- Global Days: Not applicable for laboratory tests.
- Payment Status: Active
- Modifier TC rule: Not applicable to this laboratory test.
- Fee Schedule: Historical fee schedule data is not available within the provided source.Consult fee schedules from relevant payers and years.
- Specialties:Hematology, Oncology, Surgery
- Place of Service:Office, Hospital (Inpatient and Outpatient), Clinical Laboratory