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85048 Automated leukocyte count

Pathology & Lab

Also known as: WBC count, leukocyte count, automated WBC

Automated enumeration of white blood cells (leukocytes) by electronic hematology analyzer measuring total number of WBCs per microliter to assess immune status and infection.

In Plain Language

white blood cell count; immune cell number

Clinical Context

Evaluates infections, leukemia, immune suppression, and medication effects; elevated WBC suggests infection or leukemia, decreased WBC indicates immunosuppression.

RVU Information

CPT 85048 does not have a physician work RVU assigned by CMS. Reimbursement for this code is determined by payer-specific fee schedules.

Billing & Documentation

Lab and pathology codes require an order from the treating provider with clinical indication. For molecular pathology and genetic testing, document the specific analytes tested and clinical rationale.

How This Code Compares

This code has a work RVU of 0.00, meaning it does not have a physician work component assigned by CMS. In the Pathology & Lab category, 94% of codes share this characteristic.

Specialties

Clinical PathologyHematologyInternal Medicine

Frequently Asked Questions

What is CPT code 85048?

CPT 85048 (Automated leukocyte count) is a Pathology & Lab code. Automated enumeration of white blood cells (leukocytes) by electronic hematology analyzer measuring total number of WBCs per microliter to assess immune status and infection.

Who uses CPT code 85048?

CPT 85048 is used by Clinical Pathology, Hematology, Internal Medicine. Evaluates infections, leukemia, immune suppression, and medication effects; elevated WBC suggests infection or leukemia, decreased WBC indicates immunosuppression.

When is CPT 85048 used?

Evaluates infections, leukemia, immune suppression, and medication effects; elevated WBC suggests infection or leukemia, decreased WBC indicates immunosuppression.

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CPT® is a registered trademark of the American Medical Association. Data sourced from CMS Physician Fee Schedule RVU26A. Descriptions, synonyms, and clinical context are original content by RVU Edge.