CPT® Code 83071

Deleted

Hemosiderin is a complex, insoluble protein that contains iron and is typically found within cells, particularly in macrophages, which are a type of immune cell. It serves as a significant marker for intravascular hemorrhage, indicating the presence of bleeding within the vascular system. When there is an elevation of free hemoglobin levels in the bloodstream, the kidneys respond by attempting to excrete this excess hemoglobin, leading to the appearance of hemosiderin in the urine. The testing for hemosiderin can be performed using different methodologies. Specifically, CPT® Code 83071 refers to a quantitative test that measures the precise amount of hemosiderin present in a urine sample. This is in contrast to CPT® Code 83070, which involves a qualitative test aimed at identifying the presence of hemosiderin through methods such as semi-quantitative microscopic staining. For accurate results, a random urine sample or a first morning voided specimen is typically collected for analysis.