CPT® Code 85362

The CPT® Code 85362 refers to a laboratory test that measures semiquantitative fibrin(ogen) degradation (split) products, commonly known as FDP (FSP), using an agglutination slide method. Fibrin degradation products are fragments that result from the breakdown of fibrin, a protein involved in blood clotting, by the enzyme plasmin. This process occurs when a clot is dissolved, and the presence of these fragments can indicate various pathological conditions. The test is designed to detect large amounts of FDP (FSP) in the blood, although it is important to note that it does not differentiate between the breakdown of a clot (fibrinolysis) and the degradation of intact fibrinogen (fibrinogenolysis). Both serum and plasma samples can contain FDP (FSP); however, serum testing is not recommended for evaluating FDP levels or diagnosing coagulopathies, such as disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). Plasma testing is preferred as it provides a more accurate assessment of FDP levels. Additionally, the D-dimer test is recommended for evaluating coagulopathies. Elevated levels of FDP (FSP) can be indicative of several medical conditions, including DIC, thromboembolic events, acute myocardial infarction, preeclampsia, renal failure, sepsis or shock, post-operative status, and even strenuous physical exercise. The blood sample for this test is obtained through a venipuncture, which is a separately reportable procedure, and the analysis of the serum or plasma is conducted using a latex agglutination technique.