ICD-10 Coding for Elevated Lactate Dehydrogenase(R74.02)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Elevated Lactate Dehydrogenase. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Elevated Lactate Dehydrogenase
R70-R79Primary Range
Abnormal findings on examination of blood, without diagnosis
This range includes codes for abnormal serum enzyme levels, including elevated LDH.
Key Information: When to use R74.02 as a principal diagnosis
Essential facts and insights about Elevated Lactate Dehydrogenase
Primary ICD-10-CM Code for elevated lactate dehydrogenase
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- LDH elevation without a known cause
documentation Criteria
- Include lab values and reference ranges
Applicable To
- Isolated LDH elevation
Excludes
- Conditions with known etiology causing elevated LDH
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Documented LDH level with reference range
- Exclusion of definitive diagnosis
Code-Specific Risks
- Incorrect use as principal diagnosis when a definitive condition is present
Coding Notes
- Ensure LDH levels and reference ranges are documented.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Malignant neoplasm, unspecified
C80.1Differential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Other abnormal serum enzyme levels
R74.8Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Elevated Lactate Dehydrogenase to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code R74.02.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to misinterpretation of lab results., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential claim denials.
Mitigation Strategy
Always include lab reference range in documentation.
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect DRG assignment may lead to reimbursement issues., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.
Mitigation Strategy
Use the code for the definitive condition as the principal diagnosis.
Impact
Using R74.02 as principal when a definitive diagnosis exists.
Mitigation Strategy
Review and confirm the principal diagnosis before coding.
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 Lactate Dehydrogenase, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Elevated Lactate Dehydrogenase
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Elevated Lactate Dehydrogenase. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Oncology patient with elevated LDH
Specialty: OncologyRequired Elements
- LDH level and reference range
- Underlying cancer diagnosis
- Treatment plan
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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