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85025
Complete Blood Count (CBC) With Automated Differential
Code Description
CPT code 85025 is used to report a Complete Blood Count (CBC) with automated white blood cell (WBC) differential. The test measures red blood cells, white blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, platelets, and red blood cell indices while also providing an automated differential count of the various types of white blood cells. It is commonly ordered to evaluate infection, anemia, inflammation, blood disorders, and overall health.
When to Use 85025
Common examples include:
Evaluation of infection
Anemia workup
Routine health screening
Monitoring chemotherapy
Evaluation of fatigue
Investigation of abnormal bleeding
Follow-up laboratory testing
Documentation Requirements
Documentation should include:
Medical necessity for the laboratory testing
Ordering provider
Laboratory results
Patient diagnosis or symptoms
Date of specimen collection
Complete laboratory report
Examples
Example 1
A patient presents with fever and fatigue. The physician orders a Complete Blood Count with automated differential to evaluate for infection and other blood abnormalities, making CPT code 85025 the appropriate code.
Example 2
A patient receiving chemotherapy undergoes routine laboratory monitoring before treatment. A CBC with automated white blood cell differential is performed to evaluate blood cell counts and determine whether treatment can safely continue.
Common Billing Mistakes
Common billing mistakes include:
Reporting 85025 when a differential was not performed
Billing individual CBC components separately
Selecting 85027 instead of 85025
Insufficient documentation supporting medical necessity
Duplicate laboratory billing
Related CPT Codes
85027
Complete Blood Count (CBC)
80048
Basic Metabolic Panel
80053
Comprehensive Metabolic Panel
FAQ
What does CPT code 85025 cover?
CPT code 85025 reports a Complete Blood Count (CBC) that includes an automated white blood cell differential.
What is included in CPT 85025?
The test includes red blood cell count, white blood cell count, hemoglobin, hematocrit, platelet count, red blood cell indices, and an automated white blood cell differential.
What is the difference between CPT 85025 and 85027?
CPT 85025 includes an automated white blood cell differential, while CPT 85027 reports a CBC without a differential.
When is CPT 85025 commonly performed?
It is commonly performed to evaluate infection, anemia, inflammation, blood disorders, chemotherapy patients, and routine health conditions.






Procedure Type
Hematology
Test Type
Includes
Complete Blood Count (CBC)
Automated White Blood Cell Differential


