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ICD-10 Coding for Elevated Hemoglobin(D45, D75.1, R71.8)

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

Also known as:

PolycythemiaHigh HemoglobinErythrocytosis

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Elevated Hemoglobin

D45-D47Primary Range

Myeloproliferative diseases

This range includes polycythemia vera, which is a primary condition associated with elevated hemoglobin.

Secondary polycythemia

This code is used for secondary causes of elevated hemoglobin, such as chronic hypoxia.

Other specified abnormal findings of blood chemistry

Used for unspecified elevated hemoglobin when the cause is not yet determined.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
D45Polycythemia veraUse when polycythemia vera is confirmed by clinical and laboratory findings.
  • JAK2 mutation positive
  • Hgb >18.5 g/dL (M) or >16.5 g/dL (F)
  • Splenomegaly
D75.1Secondary polycythemiaUse when elevated hemoglobin is secondary to another condition.
  • ABG showing hypoxemia
  • Elevated EPO levels
R71.8Other specified abnormal findings of blood chemistryUse when elevated hemoglobin is noted but the etiology is not yet determined.
  • Elevated hemoglobin without a confirmed diagnosis

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 elevated hemoglobin

Essential facts and insights about Elevated Hemoglobin

The ICD-10 code for elevated hemoglobin varies: D45 for polycythemia vera and D75.1 for secondary causes.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for elevated hemoglobin

Polycythemia vera
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of JAK2 mutation and elevated hemoglobin levels.

Applicable To

  • Polycythemia vera

Excludes

  • Secondary polycythemia (D75.1)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • JAK2 mutation positive
  • Hgb >18.5 g/dL (M) or >16.5 g/dL (F)
  • Splenomegaly

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrectly coding secondary polycythemia as D45.

Coding Notes

  • Ensure JAK2 mutation status is documented for accurate coding.

Ancillary Codes

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

Spontaneous ecchymoses

R23.3
Use to document associated symptoms like bruising.

Differential Codes

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

Secondary polycythemia

D75.1
Secondary to another condition such as COPD or high altitude.

Polycythemia vera

D45
Primary condition with JAK2 mutation.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Elevated Hemoglobin to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code D45.

Impact

Clinical: Misrepresentation of patient's condition., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential for claim denials.

Mitigation Strategy

Always document the underlying cause of secondary polycythemia., Use appropriate sequencing of codes.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure JAK2 mutation is documented before using D45.

Impact

Lack of documentation for JAK2 mutation in polycythemia vera cases.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure all polycythemia vera diagnoses include JAK2 test results.

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

Documentation Templates for Elevated Hemoglobin

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

Polycythemia vera diagnosis

Specialty: Hematology

Required Elements

  • JAK2 mutation status
  • Hemoglobin and hematocrit levels
  • Splenomegaly presence

Example Documentation

Patient diagnosed with polycythemia vera, JAK2 positive, Hgb 19.1 g/dL.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient has high hemoglobin.
Good Documentation Example
Patient diagnosed with polycythemia vera, confirmed by JAK2 mutation.
Explanation
The good example provides specific diagnosis and supporting lab results.

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

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