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ICD-10 Coding for Abnormal PSA(R97.20, R97.21)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Abnormal PSA. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Elevated PSAAbnormal PSA reading

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Abnormal PSA

R97.2Primary Range

Abnormal tumor markers

This range includes codes for abnormal findings of tumor markers, specifically for elevated PSA levels.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
R97.20Elevated prostate specific antigen [PSA]Use for elevated PSA levels when there is no confirmed diagnosis of prostate cancer or other specific conditions.
  • PSA level above 4.0 ng/mL
  • Consideration of age-adjusted PSA levels
R97.21Rising PSA following treatment for malignant neoplasm of prostateUse for rising PSA levels in patients with a history of prostate cancer treatment.
  • Documented history of prostate cancer treatment
  • Rising PSA levels post-treatment

Clinical Decision Support

Always review the patient's clinical documentation thoroughly. When in doubt, choose the more specific code and ensure documentation supports it.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for abnormal PSA

Essential facts and insights about Abnormal PSA

The ICD-10 code for elevated PSA is R97.20, used for elevated PSA levels without a confirmed diagnosis of prostate cancer.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for abnormal psa

Elevated prostate specific antigen [PSA]
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • PSA level above age-adjusted threshold without symptoms

coding Criteria

  • No confirmed diagnosis of prostate cancer or BPH

Applicable To

  • Elevated PSA without a history of prostate cancer

Excludes

  • Prostate cancer (C61)
  • Benign prostatic hyperplasia (N40.1)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • PSA level above 4.0 ng/mL
  • Consideration of age-adjusted PSA levels

Code-Specific Risks

  • Using R97.20 for PSA screening without symptoms

Coding Notes

  • Ensure PSA levels are documented with clinical context, including any medications affecting PSA.

Ancillary Codes

Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.

Encounter for screening for malignant neoplasm of prostate

Z12.5
Use for asymptomatic PSA screening.

Differential Codes

Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.

Rising PSA following treatment for malignant neoplasm of prostate

R97.21
Use R97.21 for patients with a history of prostate cancer treatment showing rising PSA levels.

Elevated prostate specific antigen [PSA]

R97.20
Use R97.20 for elevated PSA without a history of prostate cancer treatment.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Abnormal PSA to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code R97.20.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to inappropriate follow-up or treatment., Regulatory: Potential for audit issues., Financial: Risk of claim denials.

Mitigation Strategy

Include specific PSA values, Document clinical context

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to claim denials., Compliance: Non-compliance with Medicare guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate data on screening vs. diagnostic PSA tests.

Mitigation Strategy

Use Z12.5 with G0103 for screening purposes.

Impact

Incorrect coding of PSA tests as diagnostic when they are screening.

Mitigation Strategy

Educate staff on correct code usage and documentation requirements.

Documentation errors, coding pitfalls, and audit risks are interconnected aspects of medical coding and billing. Addressing all three areas helps ensure accurate coding, optimal reimbursement, and regulatory compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about ICD-10 coding for Abnormal PSA, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Abnormal PSA

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Abnormal PSA. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Elevated PSA in a routine screening

Specialty: Urology

Required Elements

  • PSA level
  • Clinical context
  • Follow-up plan

Example Documentation

PSA 6.2 ng/mL in a 62-year-old male, no symptoms, follow-up with repeat PSA in 6 weeks.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Elevated PSA noted.
Good Documentation Example
PSA 7.4 ng/mL in 68yo male, no recent urinary infections, denies cycling/ejaculation past 48hrs.
Explanation
The good example provides specific PSA level, patient age, and relevant clinical context.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Abnormal PSA? Ask your questions below.

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