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ICD-10 Coding for Chronic Leukocytosis(D72.829)

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

Also known as:

Persistent LeukocytosisOngoing Leukocytosis

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Chronic Leukocytosis

D72.8Primary Range

Other specified disorders of white blood cells

This range includes codes for various types of leukocytosis, including chronic leukocytosis.

Chronic myeloid leukemia

This range is relevant when chronic leukocytosis is secondary to chronic myeloid leukemia.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for chronic leukocytosis

Essential facts and insights about Chronic Leukocytosis

The ICD-10 code for chronic leukocytosis is D72.829, used when chronicity is documented.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for chronic leukocytosis

Elevated white blood cell count, unspecified
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Persistent WBC elevation over 3 months without acute cause

documentation Criteria

  • Explicit mention of 'chronic leukocytosis' in clinical notes

Applicable To

  • Chronic leukocytosis

Excludes

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • WBC >11,000/μL on ≥2 tests ≥3 months apart
  • Absence of acute infection
  • Peripheral smear showing mature neutrophils

Code-Specific Risks

  • Misclassification if chronicity is not documented
  • Incorrect sequencing if underlying cause is not coded

Coding Notes

  • Ensure chronicity is documented to differentiate from acute leukocytosis.

Ancillary Codes

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

Chronic myeloid leukemia, BCR-ABL1-positive, not in remission

C92.10
Use when chronic leukocytosis is secondary to CML.

Rheumatoid arthritis, unspecified

M06.9
Use when leukocytosis is secondary to rheumatoid arthritis.

Differential Codes

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

Leukemoid reaction

D72.823
Acute, often >50,000/μL, associated with infection or stress.

Symptomatic lymphocytosis

D72.820
Predominantly elevated lymphocytes, often linked to viral infections.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Chronic Leukocytosis to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code D72.829.

Impact

Clinical: Misrepresentation of patient's condition., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential for incorrect billing and reimbursement.

Mitigation Strategy

Educate clinicians on documentation standards., Implement EHR prompts for chronic conditions.

Impact

Reimbursement: May lead to incorrect DRG assignment and reimbursement issues., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure documentation specifies chronicity and use appropriate codes for acute conditions.

Impact

Audits may focus on whether chronicity is documented for leukocytosis.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure all clinical notes specify chronicity when applicable.

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 Chronic Leukocytosis, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Chronic Leukocytosis

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

Chronic Leukocytosis Workup

Specialty: Hematology

Required Elements

  • Duration of leukocytosis
  • WBC trends
  • Symptoms
  • Etiology evaluation

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
WBC high, monitor
Good Documentation Example
Chronic leukocytosis (WBC 16,000-18,000/μL ×9 months), etiology unclear after ruling out infection/malignancy. Plan: JAK2 testing.
Explanation
The good example specifies chronicity and outlines a clear plan for further evaluation.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Chronic Leukocytosis? Ask your questions below.

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