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Official Description

Hemosiderin, qualitative

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

Hemosiderin is a complex protein that contains iron and is typically found within cells, particularly in macrophages, which are a type of immune cell. This protein serves as an important marker for intravascular hemorrhage, indicating that there has been bleeding within the blood vessels. When there is an increase in free hemoglobin levels in the bloodstream, the kidneys respond by attempting to excrete this excess hemoglobin. As a result, hemosiderin can appear in the urine, which is a significant finding in various clinical scenarios. To detect the presence of hemosiderin, a random urine sample or a first morning voided specimen is collected. A qualitative test is then conducted, often utilizing methodologies such as a semi-quantitative microscopic stain, to ascertain whether hemosiderin is present in the urine. This testing is crucial for diagnosing conditions related to bleeding and iron metabolism, providing valuable information for further medical evaluation and management.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

Hemosiderin testing is indicated in various clinical situations where there is a suspicion of intravascular hemorrhage or conditions related to iron metabolism. The following are specific indications for performing a qualitative hemosiderin test:

  • Intravascular Hemorrhage The presence of hemosiderin in urine can indicate bleeding within the blood vessels, which may be due to trauma, vascular disorders, or other underlying conditions.
  • Hemolytic Anemia Conditions that lead to the destruction of red blood cells can result in elevated levels of free hemoglobin, prompting the kidneys to excrete hemosiderin.
  • Iron Overload Disorders Disorders such as hemochromatosis or hemosiderosis may lead to excess iron accumulation in the body, which can be detected through the presence of hemosiderin in urine.

2. Procedure

The procedure for testing hemosiderin in urine involves several key steps to ensure accurate results. The following outlines the procedural steps:

  • Step 1: Sample Collection A random urine sample or a first morning voided specimen is collected from the patient. The choice of sample may depend on the clinical context and the specific requirements of the testing protocol.
  • Step 2: Preparation for Testing The collected urine sample is prepared for analysis. This may involve centrifugation to separate any sediment from the liquid portion of the urine, ensuring that the sample is suitable for testing.
  • Step 3: Qualitative Testing A qualitative test is performed on the prepared urine sample to identify the presence of hemosiderin. This is typically done using a semi-quantitative microscopic stain, which allows for the visualization of hemosiderin granules under a microscope.
  • Step 4: Interpretation of Results The results of the test are interpreted by a qualified healthcare professional. The presence of hemosiderin in the urine is noted, and further clinical correlation is made to determine the significance of the findings in the context of the patient's overall health.

3. Post-Procedure

After the hemosiderin testing procedure, there are generally no specific post-procedure care requirements for the patient, as the test involves non-invasive urine collection. However, it is important for healthcare providers to communicate the results to the patient and discuss any necessary follow-up actions based on the findings. If hemosiderin is detected, further diagnostic evaluations may be warranted to investigate the underlying cause of the intravascular hemorrhage or iron overload. Continuous monitoring and appropriate management strategies should be considered based on the patient's clinical condition and the results of the hemosiderin test.

Short Descr ASSAY OF HEMOSIDERIN QUAL
Medium Descr ASSAY OF HEMOSIDERIN QUALITATIVE
Long Descr Hemosiderin, 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.
26 Professional component: certain procedures are a combination of a physician or other qualified health care professional component and a technical component. when the physician or other qualified health care professional component is reported separately, the service may be identified by adding modifier 26 to the usual procedure number.
Q4 Service for ordering/referring physician qualifies as a service exemption
RT Right side (used to identify procedures performed on the right side of the body)
U6 Medicaid level of care 6, as defined by each state
Date
Action
Notes
2015-01-01 Changed Code description changed.
2013-01-01 Changed Medium Descriptor changed.
2011-01-01 Changed Short description changed.
Pre-1990 Added Code added.
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Description
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Description
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