CPT® Code 81020

The CPT® Code 81020 refers to a urinalysis procedure known as the 2 or 3 glass test. This diagnostic test is specifically designed to assist healthcare professionals in identifying the location and cause of inflammation within the urethra, particularly in male patients. The procedure involves the collection of first morning urine, which is divided into two or three separate containers or glasses. Each glass is subsequently analyzed for the presence of white blood cells (WBCs) and red blood cells (RBCs). The turbidity, or cloudiness, of the urine specimens serves as a key indicator during this analysis. For instance, if the first glass shows turbidity while the subsequent glasses remain clear, it suggests that inflammation is localized to the anterior segment of the urethra, indicating a condition known as anterior urethritis. Conversely, if all collected samples exhibit turbidity, this points to the presence of both anterior and posterior urethritis. Additionally, the presence of blood in the samples provides further diagnostic insight; if only the first glass contains blood, it indicates anterior urethral inflammation, while blood in all samples suggests inflammation affecting both segments of the urethra. This structured approach to urinalysis is crucial for accurate diagnosis and subsequent management of urethral conditions.