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ICD-10 Coding for Anemia due to Chronic Kidney Disease(N18.3, D63.1)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Anemia due to Chronic Kidney Disease. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Anemia of CKDRenal Anemia

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Anemia due to Chronic Kidney Disease

N18.1-N18.9Primary Range

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) stages

This range includes the stages of CKD which are necessary to identify the primary condition causing anemia.

Anemia in chronic diseases classified elsewhere

This code is used as a secondary code to indicate anemia due to CKD.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
N18.3Chronic kidney disease, stage 3 (moderate)Use when CKD stage 3 is documented as the cause of anemia.
  • eGFR between 30-59 mL/min/1.73m²
D63.1Anemia in chronic kidney diseaseUse as a secondary code when anemia is due to CKD.
  • Hemoglobin <13 g/dL (male) or <12 g/dL (female)

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: How to code anemia due to CKD

Essential facts and insights about Anemia due to Chronic Kidney Disease

Anemia due to CKD is coded with N18.x for CKD stage and D63.1 for anemia. Sequence CKD first.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for anemia due to chronic kidney disease

Chronic kidney disease, stage 3 (moderate)
Non-billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73m² with documented anemia

Applicable To

  • Moderate CKD

Excludes

  • Acute kidney failure (N17.-)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • eGFR between 30-59 mL/min/1.73m²

Code-Specific Risks

  • Ensure CKD stage is documented; otherwise, query the provider.

Coding Notes

  • Always sequence CKD code before D63.1.

Ancillary Codes

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

Dependence on renal dialysis

Z99.2
Use when the patient is on dialysis.

Differential Codes

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

Chronic kidney disease, stage 2 (mild)

N18.2
eGFR between 60-89 mL/min/1.73m²; not typically associated with anemia.

Anemia in other chronic diseases classified elsewhere

D63.8
Use when anemia is due to chronic diseases other than CKD.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Anemia due to Chronic Kidney Disease to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code N18.3.

Impact

Clinical: Inaccurate treatment planning., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential for denied claims.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure CKD stage is documented in every relevant note.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect sequencing can lead to lower reimbursement., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate representation of patient condition.

Mitigation Strategy

Always sequence a CKD code (N18.x) before D63.1.

Impact

Incorrect sequencing of CKD and anemia codes.

Mitigation Strategy

Regular training on ICD-10 guidelines.

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 Anemia due to Chronic Kidney Disease, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Anemia due to Chronic Kidney Disease

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Anemia due to Chronic Kidney Disease. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Nephrology Progress Note

Specialty: Nephrology

Required Elements

  • CKD stage
  • Hemoglobin levels
  • ESA therapy

Example Documentation

Assessment: 1. Stage 4 CKD (N18.4) due to diabetic nephropathy (E11.22) 2. Anemia of CKD (D63.1): Hb 9.8 g/dL, ferritin 85 ng/mL, TSAT 18% 3. ESRD on hemodialysis (Z99.2)

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Anemia and CKD
Good Documentation Example
Anemia due to stage 4 CKD (eGFR 25), on ESA therapy
Explanation
The good example specifies the causal relationship and treatment details.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Anemia due to Chronic Kidney Disease? Ask your questions below.

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