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ICD-10 Coding for Elevated C-Reactive Protein(R79.82)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Elevated C-Reactive Protein. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

High CRPIncreased C-Reactive Proteincrp elevatedhigh creactive protein

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Elevated C-Reactive Protein

R70-R79Primary Range

Abnormal findings on examination of blood, without diagnosis

This range includes codes for abnormal blood chemistry findings, including elevated CRP.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for elevated C-reactive protein

Essential facts and insights about Elevated C-Reactive Protein

The ICD-10 code for elevated C-reactive protein is R79.82, used when CRP levels are above 0.9 mg/dL and linked to an underlying condition.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for elevated c reactive protein

Elevated C-reactive protein (CRP)
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • CRP level above 0.9 mg/dL with a documented cause

coding Criteria

  • Do not use as a principal diagnosis

Applicable To

  • Elevated CRP

Excludes

  • Specific conditions causing elevated CRP

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • CRP level above 0.9 mg/dL
  • Documentation of underlying condition causing CRP elevation

Code-Specific Risks

  • Using as a principal diagnosis without an underlying condition

Coding Notes

  • Always sequence after the code for the underlying condition.

Differential Codes

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

Other specified abnormal findings of blood chemistry

R79.89
Use R79.89 when CRP is not specifically documented as elevated.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Elevated 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: Lack of specificity in patient records., Regulatory: Potential non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Risk of claim denial due to insufficient documentation.

Mitigation Strategy

Always include numerical CRP values in documentation., Ensure linkage to an underlying condition.

Impact

Reimbursement: Claims may be denied if R79.82 is used as a principal diagnosis., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate representation of the patient's condition.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure an underlying condition is coded as the principal diagnosis.

Impact

High risk of audit if R79.82 is used without a documented cause.

Mitigation Strategy

Always document and code the underlying condition first.

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 Elevated C-Reactive Protein, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Elevated C-Reactive Protein

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Elevated C-Reactive Protein. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Patient with elevated CRP due to infection

Specialty: Infectious Disease

Required Elements

  • CRP level
  • Underlying infection diagnosis
  • Treatment plan

Example Documentation

CRP 14.7 mg/dL; diagnosed with pneumonia; start antibiotics.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
High CRP noted.
Good Documentation Example
CRP 14.7 mg/dL, consistent with pneumonia diagnosis.
Explanation
The good example provides specific CRP level and links it to a diagnosis.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Elevated C-Reactive Protein? Ask your questions below.

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