ICD-10 Coding for Elevated Lactic Acid(E87.2, R74.02, R89.8)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Elevated Lactic Acid. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Elevated Lactic Acid
E87.2Primary Range
Metabolic acidosis, including lactic acidosis
Primary code for lactic acidosis with pH <7.35 and lactate ≥5 mmol/L.
Elevated lactate dehydrogenase (LDH)
Used for elevated LDH, not directly related to lactic acid.
Other abnormal findings of blood chemistry
Used for elevated lactate without acidosis or LDH involvement.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| E87.2 | Metabolic acidosis | Use when both elevated lactate and acidosis are present. |
|
| R74.02 | Elevated lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) | Use only for elevated LDH without acidosis. |
|
| R89.8 | Other abnormal findings of blood chemistry | Use for elevated lactate without acidosis or LDH involvement. |
|
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 lactic acid
Essential facts and insights about Elevated Lactic Acid
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for elevated lactic acid
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of acidosis with elevated lactate
coding Criteria
- Avoid using with diabetic ketoacidosis
Applicable To
- Lactic acidosis
Excludes
- Diabetic ketoacidosis (E10.10)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- pH <7.35
- Lactate ≥5 mmol/L
Code-Specific Risks
- Misapplication with diabetic ketoacidosis
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies lactic acidosis with pH and lactate levels.
R74.02 - Elevated lactate dehydrogenase (LDH)
Use only for elevated LDH without acidosis.
Excludes
- Lactic acidosis
Clinical Validation Requirements
- LDH > reference range
Coding Notes
Do not use for lactic acid elevation.
R89.8 - Other abnormal findings of blood chemistry
Use for elevated lactate without acidosis or LDH involvement.
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Lactate >2.5 mmol/L without acidosis
Coding Notes
Ensure no acidosis is present.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Adverse effect of metformin
T38.8x5ADifferential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Type 1 diabetes mellitus with ketoacidosis
E10.10Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Elevated Lactic Acid to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code E87.2.
Impact
Clinical: Misdiagnosis risk., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential claim denials.
Mitigation Strategy
Verify lab results for LDH vs. lactate., Educate staff on differences.
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.
Mitigation Strategy
Confirm LDH lab results before using R74.02.
Impact
Reimbursement: Potential overpayment risk., Compliance: Violation of coding rules., Data Quality: Misleading clinical data.
Mitigation Strategy
Apply Excludes1 notes for E87.2 with DKA.
Impact
Reimbursement: Claims may be denied for lack of evidence., Compliance: Incomplete documentation., Data Quality: Lack of clinical validation.
Mitigation Strategy
Query if pH is missing.
Impact
Risk of coding E87.2 without proper documentation.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation includes pH and lactate levels.
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 Lactic Acid, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Elevated Lactic Acid
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Elevated Lactic Acid. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Suspected Lactic Acidosis in ED
Specialty: Emergency MedicineRequired Elements
- pH level
- Lactate level
- Underlying cause
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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