ICD-10 Coding for Cirrhosis of the Liver(K70.31, K74.2)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Cirrhosis of the Liver. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Cirrhosis of the Liver
K70-K77Primary Range
Diseases of liver
This range includes all liver diseases, with specific codes for cirrhosis based on etiology and complications.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| K70.31 | Alcoholic cirrhosis of liver with ascites | Use when alcoholic cirrhosis is confirmed with ascites present. |
|
| K74.2 | Primary biliary cirrhosis | Use when primary biliary cirrhosis is confirmed by serology and liver function tests. |
|
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 alcoholic cirrhosis with ascites
Essential facts and insights about Cirrhosis of the Liver
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for cirrhosis of liver
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Document alcohol use and confirm ascites via imaging.
Applicable To
- Alcoholic cirrhosis with ascites
Excludes
- Non-alcoholic cirrhosis
Clinical Validation Requirements
- AST:ALT ratio >2
- Ultrasound showing ascites
Code-Specific Risks
- Ensure alcohol use is documented as the etiology.
Coding Notes
- Ensure to document alcohol use history and confirm ascites via imaging.
K74.2 - Primary biliary cirrhosis
Use when primary biliary cirrhosis is confirmed by serology and liver function tests.
Applicable To
- Primary biliary cholangitis
Excludes
- Secondary biliary cirrhosis
Clinical Validation Requirements
- AMA-positive
- Elevated ALP (>1.5x ULN)
Coding Notes
Document serological findings and liver function tests.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Other ascites
R18.8Differential 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 Cirrhosis of the Liver to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code K70.31.
Impact
Clinical: Leads to incorrect treatment plans., Regulatory: Fails to meet coding standards., Financial: Potential for reduced reimbursement.
Mitigation Strategy
Use specific terms like 'alcoholic cirrhosis'.
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to lower DRG assignment., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Decreased accuracy in clinical data.
Mitigation Strategy
Always code the specific etiology first, such as K70.31 for alcoholic cirrhosis.
Impact
Using unspecified codes when specific etiology is known.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure thorough documentation of etiology and complications.
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 Cirrhosis of the Liver, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Cirrhosis of the Liver
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Cirrhosis of the Liver. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Alcoholic cirrhosis with ascites
Specialty: HepatologyRequired Elements
- Etiology of cirrhosis
- Presence of ascites
- Alcohol use history
- Imaging results
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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