All codes
L825
L825 – Compensated Polarized Light Microscopy for Synovial Fluid Crystals
OHIP Dermatology Code — Laboratory Medicine · Schedule of Benefits
Compensated polarized light microscopy for synovial fluid crystals. This is a specific laboratory procedure performed on synovial fluid to aid in the diagnosis of crystal-induced arthropathies, such as gout and pseudogout. It is listed under the Anatomic Pathology - Cytopathology subsection of Laboratory Medicine. See also L824 for a more comprehensive synovial fluid analysis.
When to Use
- Use L825 when you perform the specific microscopic examination for crystals on aspirated synovial fluid to confirm a diagnosis of gout or pseudogout.
- Select L825 when the clinical focus is limited to crystal identification, whereas L824 should be used if a more comprehensive analysis including cell counts or differential is required.
Common Pitfalls
- Billing L825 in conjunction with L824 is often flagged as an audit risk for unbundling, as L824 typically encompasses the examination of the fluid.
- Submitting L825 without a formal laboratory requisition or pathology report supporting the microscopic findings will result in a clawback during a Ministry audit.
Billing Tips
- Ensure the clinical indication for the crystal search is clearly documented in the patient chart to justify the specific laboratory procedure code over a general fluid analysis.
Provider Fee$25.20
Specialist Fee$0.00
Surgical Assistant Fee$0.00
Anaesthetist Fee$0.00
Non-Anaesthetist Fee$0.00
Effective: April 1, 2025
Category
Diagnostic and Therapeutic Procedures
Subcategory
Laboratory Medicine
Service Type
Laboratory
Code Classes
Diagnostic and Therapeutic Procedures
Referral RequiredFrom: Physician, NursePractitioner, OralMaxillofacialSurgeon
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