How To Use CPT Code 82355

CPT 82355 describes the qualitative analysis of calculus, also known as a stone, to determine the presence of various substances such as calcium, carbonate, cystine, magnesium, oxalate, phosphates, and urates. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 82355?

CPT 82355 is used to describe the qualitative analysis of calculus, which involves determining the composition of a stone by assessing the presence of substances such as calcium, carbonate, cystine, magnesium, oxalate, phosphates, and urates. This code is used when a lab analyst performs a qualitative analysis on a calculus specimen to identify its composition.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 82355 is: ‘Calculus; qualitative analysis.’

3. Procedure

1. The lab analyst receives a calculus specimen for qualitative analysis.
2. The analyst washes the calculus to remove any contaminants that may affect the analysis.
3. A qualitative analysis is performed to determine the presence of substances such as calcium, carbonate, cystine, magnesium, oxalate, phosphates, and urates.
4. The composition of the calculus is identified based on the results of the qualitative analysis.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 82355 is used when a lab analyst performs a qualitative analysis on a calculus specimen to determine its composition. This analysis is typically performed on calculi of kidney origin, but it may also be performed on stones from the gall bladder or other locations. The analysis helps in diagnosing conditions such as nephrolithiasis and provides valuable information for treatment planning.

5. When to use CPT code 82355

CPT code 82355 should be used when a lab analyst performs a qualitative analysis on a calculus specimen to determine its composition. This code is appropriate when the analysis is solely qualitative and does not involve quantitative measurements. If a quantitative analysis is required, other CPT codes such as 82360, 82365, or 82370 should be used.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 82355, the documentation should include:

• Clear indication that the analysis performed is qualitative
• Composition of the calculus identified based on the qualitative analysis
• Any relevant notes or observations made during the analysis

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 82355, ensure that the analysis performed is qualitative and not quantitative. It is important to clearly indicate the composition of the calculus based on the qualitative analysis. If additional quantitative analysis is performed, separate CPT codes should be used. Be aware of any specific payer guidelines or requirements for reporting CPT 82355.

8. Historical information

CPT 82355 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A lab analyst performs a qualitative analysis on a calculus specimen and identifies the presence of calcium and oxalate.
2. During the qualitative analysis, the lab analyst determines that the calculus is composed of magnesium and phosphates.
3. A calculus specimen is analyzed qualitatively, and the lab analyst identifies the presence of carbonate and urates.
4. Qualitative analysis of a calculus specimen reveals the presence of cystine and calcium.
5. The lab analyst performs a qualitative analysis on a calculus specimen and identifies the presence of oxalate and urates.
6. During the qualitative analysis, the lab analyst determines that the calculus is composed of calcium and phosphates.
7. A calculus specimen is analyzed qualitatively, and the lab analyst identifies the presence of magnesium and carbonate.
8. Qualitative analysis of a calculus specimen reveals the presence of cystine and oxalate.
9. The lab analyst performs a qualitative analysis on a calculus specimen and identifies the presence of calcium and urates.
10. During the qualitative analysis, the lab analyst determines that the calculus is composed of magnesium and phosphates.