How To Use CPT Code 83935

CPT 83935 describes the measurement of urine osmolality, which is a test used to determine the number of dissolved particles in a urine sample. This article will cover the official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 83935?

CPT 83935 is a code used to describe the measurement of urine osmolality. This test is performed by a lab analyst on a random urine specimen to determine the concentration of dissolved particles in the urine. The osmolality of a solution affects its boiling and freezing points, making it an important measurement for assessing hydration, electrolyte balance, and other critical conditions that require intervention with intravenous fluids.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 83935 is: ‘Osmolality; urine.’ This code specifically refers to the measurement of urine osmolality and should not be confused with tear osmolarity using microfluidic analysis, which has a separate CPT code (83861).

3. Procedure

1. The lab analyst collects a random urine specimen from the patient.
2. The urine specimen is analyzed using an osmometer, which measures the freezing point lowering caused by the concentration of particles dissolved in the urine.
3. The osmolality of the urine is quantitated based on the freezing point lowering, providing a measurement of the number of dissolved particles in the urine.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 83935 can be used for any patient who requires a measurement of urine osmolality. This test is not limited to specific conditions and can be used to assess hydration, electrolyte balance, and other critical conditions. The test is typically performed on a random urine specimen rather than a 24-hour collection.

5. When to use CPT code 83935

CPT code 83935 should be used when a healthcare provider needs to measure the osmolality of a patient’s urine. This test is useful for assessing hydration status, electrolyte balance, and other conditions that require monitoring of urine osmolality. It is important to note that this code specifically applies to the measurement of urine osmolality and should not be used for other types of osmolality measurements.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 83935, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Reason for performing the urine osmolality measurement
• Date and time of the test
• Results of the urine osmolality measurement
• Signature of the healthcare provider who performed or ordered the test

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 83935, ensure that the test is performed to measure urine osmolality. It is important to use the correct CPT code for the specific type of osmolality measurement required. CPT code 83935 should not be reported with other codes unless there are specific circumstances that warrant additional billing. It is important to follow the guidelines provided by the payer and ensure accurate documentation to support the claim.

8. Historical information

CPT 83935 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 measuring the urine osmolality of a patient to assess their hydration status.
2. A healthcare provider ordering a urine osmolality test to monitor electrolyte balance in a patient with kidney disease.
3. A nurse collecting a random urine specimen for osmolality measurement in a patient admitted with dehydration.
4. A physician ordering a urine osmolality test to evaluate a patient with suspected diabetes insipidus.
5. A healthcare provider monitoring the urine osmolality of a patient receiving intravenous fluids to ensure proper hydration.
6. A lab analyst performing a urine osmolality test to assess the effectiveness of a diuretic medication in a patient with heart failure.
7. A nurse documenting the results of a urine osmolality test performed on a patient with hyponatremia.
8. A healthcare provider ordering a urine osmolality measurement to evaluate a patient with suspected syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH).
9. A lab analyst performing a urine osmolality test to assess the renal function of a patient with chronic kidney disease.
10. A physician ordering a urine osmolality measurement to monitor the response to treatment in a patient with diabetes mellitus.