Need help choosing the right code?
Ask CasePilot about procedures, modifiers, bundling, and coding guidance.
Try CasePilot© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.
The CPT® Code 82615 refers to a laboratory test that qualitatively assesses the presence of two specific amino acids, cystine and homocystine, in urine. Cystine is formed from the breakdown of the amino acids lysine, ornithine, and arginine. Under normal circumstances, cystine is reabsorbed by the kidneys; however, when this process is impaired, cystine can accumulate and precipitate in the urine, leading to the formation of kidney stones. This condition is known as cystinuria, which is typically attributed to an inherited genetic disorder affecting the renal tubular reabsorption of cystine. On the other hand, homocystinuria is associated with metabolic disorders related to the amino acid methionine, which may arise from deficiencies in specific enzymes, such as cystathionine beta synthase, or from vitamin B deficiencies, including B2, B6, B9, and B12. Elevated levels of homocystine can manifest in a variety of multisystemic symptoms, which may include disorders affecting connective tissues, muscles, the central nervous system, and cardiovascular health. To perform this test, a urine sample is collected, either through a voided specimen or catheterization, and is subsequently analyzed for the presence of cystine and homocystine using spectrometry techniques.
© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.
The qualitative urine test for cystine and homocystine is indicated for the following conditions:
The procedure for testing urine for cystine and homocystine involves several key steps:
After the urine sample has been tested for cystine and homocystine, the results will be documented and communicated to the healthcare provider. Depending on the findings, further diagnostic testing or clinical evaluation may be necessary to confirm a diagnosis or to assess the need for treatment. Patients may be advised on dietary modifications or other management strategies if elevated levels of cystine or homocystine are detected. Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to monitor the patient's condition and response to any interventions.
| Short Descr | TEST FOR URINE CYSTINES | Medium Descr | CSTINE&HOMOCSTINE URINE QUALITATIVE | Long Descr | Cystine and homocystine, urine, qualitative | Status Code | Statutory Exclusion (from MPFS, may be paid under other methodologies) | Global Days | XXX - Global Concept Does Not Apply | PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) | 9 - Not Applicable | Multiple Procedures (51) | 9 - Concept does not apply. | Bilateral Surgery (50) | 9 - Concept does not apply. | Physician Supervisions | 09 - Concept does not apply. | Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) | 9 - Concept does not apply. | Co-Surgeons (62) | 9 - Concept does not apply. | Team Surgery (66) | 9 - Concept does not apply. | Diagnostic Imaging Family | 99 - Concept Does Not Apply | CLIA Waived (QW) | No | APC Status Indicator | Conditionally packaged laboratory tests | Type of Service (TOS) | 5 - Diagnostic Laboratory | Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) | T1H - Lab tests - other (non-Medicare fee schedule) | MUE | 1 | CCS Clinical Classification | 233 - Laboratory - Chemistry and Hematology |
| 90 | Reference (outside) laboratory: when laboratory procedures are performed by a party other than the treating or reporting physician or other qualified health care professional, the procedure may be identified by adding modifier 90 to the usual procedure number. | GV | Attending physician not employed or paid under arrangement by the patient's hospice provider | GW | Service not related to the hospice patient's terminal condition | Q3 | Live kidney donor surgery and related services |
|
Date
|
Action
|
Notes
|
|---|---|---|
| Pre-1990 | Added | Code added. |
Get instant expert-level medical coding assistance.