Coding Ahead
CasePilot
Medical Coding Assistant
Case2Code
Search and Code Lookup Tool
CareerCenter
Medical Coding Job Board
Log in Register free account

Need help choosing the right code?

Ask CasePilot about procedures, modifiers, bundling, and coding guidance.

Try CasePilot

Official Description

Urobilinogen, feces, quantitative

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

Urobilinogen is a biochemical compound that results from the reduction of bilirubin, a substance produced during the breakdown of red blood cells. This process occurs primarily in the intestines, where bacteria act on stercobilinogen, converting it into urobilinogen. The presence of urobilinogen in feces is significant as it contributes to the characteristic brown color of stool, which is primarily due to the oxidation of urobilinogen to stercobilin. The measurement of urobilinogen levels in feces can provide valuable insights into a patient's liver function and overall health. Abnormal levels of urobilinogen may indicate various medical conditions; for instance, decreased levels can occur in cases of biliary obstruction, where the flow of bile is impeded, or as a result of the use of certain antibiotics that disrupt the normal intestinal flora, thereby affecting the bacterial conversion process. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for healthcare professionals when interpreting laboratory results related to liver function and gastrointestinal health.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

Urobilinogen testing is indicated for the evaluation of various conditions related to liver function and biliary health. The following are specific indications for performing this test:

  • Biliary Obstruction - Decreased levels of urobilinogen may suggest an obstruction in the bile ducts, which can impede the normal flow of bile and affect digestion.
  • Antibiotic Use - Certain antibiotics can alter the intestinal flora, leading to reduced bacterial action on stercobilinogen and consequently lower urobilinogen levels.
  • Liver Disease - Conditions affecting liver function, such as hepatitis or cirrhosis, may also impact urobilinogen production and excretion.

2. Procedure

The procedure for measuring urobilinogen in feces involves several key steps to ensure accurate results. The following outlines the procedural steps:

  • Sample Collection - A stool sample is collected from the patient, ensuring that it is free from contamination. Proper collection techniques are essential to obtain a representative sample for analysis.
  • Sample Preparation - The collected stool sample is prepared for analysis, which may involve homogenization or dilution to facilitate accurate measurement of urobilinogen levels.
  • Quantitative Analysis - The prepared sample undergoes quantitative analysis using specific laboratory techniques, such as spectrophotometry or colorimetric assays, to determine the concentration of urobilinogen present in the feces.
  • Result Interpretation - The laboratory results are interpreted by healthcare professionals, taking into account the normal reference ranges and any clinical context provided by the patient's medical history.

3. Post-Procedure

After the urobilinogen test is completed, the patient may not require any specific post-procedure care, as the test is non-invasive and does not involve any significant risks. However, it is important for healthcare providers to discuss the results with the patient, explaining any abnormal findings and their potential implications for liver and gastrointestinal health. Follow-up testing or additional diagnostic procedures may be recommended based on the results and the patient's overall clinical picture.

Short Descr ASSAY OF FECES/UROBILINOGEN
Medium Descr ASSAY OF UROBILINOGEN FECES QUANTITATIVE
Long Descr Urobilinogen, feces, quantitative
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
Date
Action
Notes
2013-01-01 Changed Medium Descriptor changed.
Pre-1990 Added Code added.
CasePilot

Get instant expert-level medical coding assistance.

Ask about:
CPT Codes Guidelines Modifiers Crosswalks NCCI Edits Compliance Medicare Coverage
Example: "What is CPT code 99213?" or "Guidelines for E/M services"