ICD-10 Coding for C-reactive protein(R79.82)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for C-reactive protein. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to C-reactive protein
R70-R79Primary Range
Abnormal findings on examination of blood, without diagnosis
This range includes codes for abnormal blood findings, including elevated CRP.
Diseases of the musculoskeletal system and connective tissue
Includes conditions like rheumatoid arthritis where CRP elevation is relevant.
Diseases of the circulatory system
Includes cardiovascular conditions where CRP is used for risk assessment.
Key Information: ICD-10 code for elevated C-reactive protein
Essential facts and insights about C-reactive protein
Primary ICD-10-CM Code for c reactive protein
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- CRP level >0.3 mg/dL with no specific diagnosis
documentation Criteria
- Link CRP elevation to a clinical condition
Applicable To
- Elevated CRP levels without a specific diagnosis
Excludes
- Specific conditions causing CRP elevation, such as infections or autoimmune diseases
Clinical Validation Requirements
- CRP level >0.3 mg/dL
- Documentation linking CRP elevation to a clinical condition
Code-Specific Risks
- Using as a primary code without an underlying condition
Coding Notes
- R79.82 should not be used as a primary diagnosis code.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Other specified health status
Z78.9Differential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting C-reactive protein to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code R79.82.
Impact
Clinical: Misinterpretation of patient condition., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential claim denials.
Mitigation Strategy
Always document the clinical context., Use specific codes for underlying conditions.
Impact
Reimbursement: Claims may be denied if R79.82 is used as a primary code., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate representation of patient condition.
Mitigation Strategy
Always pair with a code for the underlying condition.
Impact
High denial rate for claims using R79.82 as a primary diagnosis.
Mitigation Strategy
Always document and code the underlying condition.
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 C-reactive protein, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for C-reactive protein
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for C-reactive protein. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Rheumatology assessment
Specialty: RheumatologyRequired Elements
- CRP levels
- Joint examination findings
- Treatment plan
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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