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ICD-10 Coding for Elevated D-dimer(R79.89)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Elevated D-dimer. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

High D-dimerIncreased D-dimer levelsIncreased D-dimerHigh D-dimer levelsdisorder d-dimer elevateddisorder dimerd-dimer elevationpositive d-dimer

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Elevated D-dimer

R70-R79Primary Range

Abnormal findings on examination of blood, without diagnosis

This range includes codes for abnormal blood chemistry findings, including elevated D-dimer.

Diseases of veins, lymphatic vessels and lymph nodes, not elsewhere classified

This range includes codes for conditions such as DVT and PE, which may present with elevated D-dimer levels.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for elevated D-dimer

Essential facts and insights about Elevated D-dimer

The ICD-10 code for elevated D-dimer without a confirmed underlying condition is R79.89.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for elevated dimer

Other specified abnormal findings of blood chemistry
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • D-dimer level is elevated without a confirmed underlying condition.

coding Criteria

  • No other ICD-10 code better describes the patient's condition.

Applicable To

  • Elevated D-dimer

Excludes

  • Conditions with a known cause of elevated D-dimer, such as DVT or PE

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Documented D-dimer level above the normal reference range
  • Absence of a confirmed underlying condition causing the elevation

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrectly using this code when an underlying condition is present

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation supports the use of R79.89 by excluding other causes.

Ancillary Codes

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

Embolism and thrombosis of other specified veins

I82.4-
Use when DVT or PE is confirmed as the cause of elevated D-dimer.

Differential Codes

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

Elevated CEA

R79.1
Use R79.1 only for elevated CEA, not for D-dimer.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Elevated D-dimer to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code R79.89.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to incorrect clinical decisions., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential for claim denials due to insufficient documentation.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure lab results are included in the patient's record., Verify documentation before submission.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to claim denials., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.

Mitigation Strategy

Use R79.89 for elevated D-dimer unless CEA is also elevated.

Impact

Using R79.89 without proper documentation of D-dimer levels.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure all lab values are documented and linked to clinical decisions.

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 D-dimer, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Elevated D-dimer

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

Emergency Department Evaluation for Suspected PE

Specialty: Emergency Medicine

Required Elements

  • Patient history and presenting symptoms
  • Wells Score or other clinical probability assessment
  • D-dimer level and reference range
  • Imaging results if performed

Example Documentation

52-year-old male presents with chest pain. Wells Score: 2. D-dimer: 480 ng/mL (ref: <500 ng/mL). CTPA negative for PE.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
D-dimer elevated.
Good Documentation Example
D-dimer: 1,800 ng/mL (ref: <500 ng/mL) in patient with Wells Score 4, CTPA negative.
Explanation
The good example provides specific lab values and clinical context.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Elevated D-dimer? Ask your questions below.

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