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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesR82.8

R82.8

Abnormal findings on cytological and histological examination of urine

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/11/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 R82.8 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of abnormal findings on cytological and histological examination of urine.

Key Diagnostic Point:

R82.8 is used to classify abnormal findings identified during cytological and histological examinations of urine that do not fall under more specific categories. These findings may include atypical cells, abnormal cellular architecture, or other histological changes that suggest underlying pathology. Common causes of abnormal findings in urine cytology include urinary tract infections, malignancies (such as bladder cancer), and inflammatory conditions. The diagnostic approach typically involves obtaining a urine sample, which is then subjected to microscopic examination and may include additional tests such as urine culture or cytology. Clinicians must interpret these findings in the context of the patient's clinical history and symptoms, as abnormal results can indicate a range of conditions from benign to malignant. Accurate coding is essential for proper documentation and reimbursement, and coders must ensure that the findings are well-documented in the patient's medical record.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in clinical presentation and underlying causes
  • Need for correlation with clinical findings and history
  • Potential overlap with other urinary conditions
  • Documentation requirements for specificity

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of findings
  • Failure to correlate abnormal findings with clinical symptoms
  • Misinterpretation of cytological results
  • Incorrect assignment of code due to lack of specificity

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Internal Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical history, including symptoms and prior urinary issues, must be documented. The rationale for the cytological examination should also be included.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with hematuria, recurrent urinary tract infections, or unexplained urinary symptoms.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that all findings are clearly linked to the patient's clinical presentation to avoid ambiguity in coding.

Emergency Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Acute care documentation must include the reason for the cytological examination and any immediate findings.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with acute flank pain, gross hematuria, or signs of urinary obstruction.

Billing Considerations

In emergency settings, rapid documentation is crucial; ensure that all relevant findings are captured promptly.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use R82.8 When
  • Coders should refer to the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring that the code is used only when the findings are not classified elsewhere
  • Documentation must support the diagnosis and include the results of cytological examinations

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use R82.8 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related CPT Codes

88104CPT Code

Cytopathology, cervical or vaginal, collected in preservative fluid

Clinical Scenario

Used when cytological examination is performed on urine samples.

Documentation Requirements

Documentation must include the reason for the cytological examination and the findings.

Specialty Considerations

Urology specialists may frequently use this code in conjunction with R82.8.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of abnormal findings, improving the granularity of data collected for urinary conditions. R82.8 provides a means to capture findings that do not fit neatly into other categories, enhancing clinical understanding and treatment planning.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of abnormal findings, improving the granularity of data collected for urinary conditions. R82.8 provides a means to capture findings that do not fit neatly into other categories, enhancing clinical understanding and treatment planning.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of abnormal findings, improving the granularity of data collected for urinary conditions. R82.8 provides a means to capture findings that do not fit neatly into other categories, enhancing clinical understanding and treatment planning.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Frequently Asked Questions

What should be documented to support the use of R82.8?

Documentation should include the clinical indication for the cytological examination, the specific findings noted, and any follow-up actions or diagnoses that arise from those findings.