CPT® Code 85536

The CPT® Code 85536 refers to a laboratory test known as the iron stain of peripheral blood. This test is specifically designed to identify the presence of iron stores within a peripheral blood smear. The primary application of this test is in the assessment of bone marrow; however, it can also be utilized on peripheral blood samples when there is a strong suspicion of Pappenheimer bodies, which are siderotic granules indicative of iron accumulation. The results of this test are particularly valuable in aiding the diagnosis of sideroblastic anemia, a condition characterized by the body's inability to properly incorporate iron into hemoglobin despite adequate iron levels. To perform this test, a blood sample is collected through a venipuncture, which is a separately reportable procedure. The collected whole blood is then smeared onto a glass slide, followed by staining with Perl's Prussian Blue solution. This staining technique allows for the cytochemical demonstration of iron-bearing pigments when the slide is examined under a microscope, providing critical information regarding the iron status in the blood sample.