Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN)

CPT Code: 84520
Order Code: C107
ABN Requirement:  No
Synonyms: Urea; BUN
Specimen: Serum
Volume: 0.5 mL
Minimum Volume: 0.2 mL
Container: Gel-barrier tube (SST, Tiger Top)

Collection:

1. Collect and label sample according to standard protocols.
2. Gently invert tube 5 times immediately after draw. DO NOT SHAKE.
3. Allow blood to clot 30 minutes.
4. Centrifuge for 10 minutes.

Transport: Store serum at 2°C to 8°C after collection and ship the same day per packaging instructions included with the provided shipping box.

Stability:

Ambient (15-25°C): 7 days
Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days
Frozen (-20°C): 1 year

Causes for Rejection: Specimens other than serum; improper labeling; samples not stored properly; samples older than stability limits

Methodology: Photometric

Turn Around Time: 1 to 3 days

Reference Range:

Clinical Significance: Urea is the principle waste product of protein catabolism. BUN is most commonly measured in the diagnosis and treatment of certain renal and metabolic diseases. Increased BUN concentration may result from increased production of urea due to (1) diet or excessive destruction of cellular proteins as occurs in massive infection and fevers, (2) reduced renal perfusion resulting from dehydration or heart failure, (3) nearly all types of kidney disease, and (4) mechanical obstruction to urine excretion such as is caused by stones, tumors, infection, or stricture. Decreased urea levels are less frequent and occur primarily in advanced liver disease and in overhydration.

Limitations: Ammonium ions may cause erroneously elevated results. In very rare cases gammopathy may cause unreliable results.

The CPT codes provided are based on AMA guidelines and are for informational purposes only. CPT coding is the sole responsibility of the billing party. Please direct any questions regarding coding to the payer being billed.