85555 Rbc osmotic fragility
Also known as: Osmotic fragility test, osmotic resistance test
Osmotic fragility test (incubated or unincubated) measures red blood cell resistance to hypotonic solution, identifying cells with abnormal osmotic properties indicative of hemolytic disorders.
In Plain Language
Red blood cell salt water test; Cell swelling capacity measurement
Clinical Context
Primary test for hereditary spherocytosis and other intrinsic red blood cell membrane defects. Helps differentiate hereditary from acquired hemolytic anemias.
RVU Information
CPT 85555 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
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 85555?
CPT 85555 (Rbc osmotic fragility) is a Pathology & Lab code. Osmotic fragility test (incubated or unincubated) measures red blood cell resistance to hypotonic solution, identifying cells with abnormal osmotic properties indicative of hemolytic disorders.
Who uses CPT code 85555?
CPT 85555 is used by Hematology, Clinical Pathology, Hemato-Oncology. Primary test for hereditary spherocytosis and other intrinsic red blood cell membrane defects. Helps differentiate hereditary from acquired hemolytic anemias.
When is CPT 85555 used?
Primary test for hereditary spherocytosis and other intrinsic red blood cell membrane defects. Helps differentiate hereditary from acquired hemolytic anemias.
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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.