ICD-10 Coding for Elevated Liver Function Tests(R74.01, R74.02)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Elevated Liver Function Tests. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Elevated Liver Function Tests
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| R74.01 | Elevated liver transaminases | Use when ALT and AST are elevated without a specific liver disease diagnosis. |
|
| R74.02 | Elevated LDH | Use when LDH is elevated and confirmed to be of hepatic origin. |
|
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 liver function tests
Essential facts and insights about Elevated Liver Function Tests
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for elevated lfts
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- ALT and AST levels are elevated without a specific diagnosis.
Applicable To
- Elevated ALT
- Elevated AST
Excludes
- Specific liver diseases (K70-K77)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- ALT >40 U/L and AST >40 U/L
- No confirmed liver diagnosis
Code-Specific Risks
- Coding from lab results without physician documentation.
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies 'elevated transaminases' rather than a specific liver disease.
R74.02 - Elevated LDH
Use when LDH is elevated and confirmed to be of hepatic origin.
Applicable To
- Elevated lactate dehydrogenase
Excludes
- Hemolytic processes
Clinical Validation Requirements
- LDH >250 U/L
- No hemolytic process documented
Coding Notes
Ensure LDH elevation is linked to liver function.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Abnormal liver function studies
R94.5Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Elevated Liver Function Tests to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code R74.01.
Impact
Clinical: Misrepresentation of patient condition., Regulatory: Potential audit issues., Financial: Claim denials due to improper coding.
Mitigation Strategy
Verify physician documentation before coding., Educate staff on coding requirements.
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to denied claims if not properly documented., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.
Mitigation Strategy
Require physician documentation stating 'elevated LFTs'.
Impact
Risk of coding elevated LFTs without physician documentation.
Mitigation Strategy
Require physician notes 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 Liver Function Tests, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Elevated Liver Function Tests
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Elevated Liver Function Tests. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Gastroenterology consultation for elevated LFTs
Specialty: GastroenterologyRequired Elements
- Patient history
- Lab results
- Imaging findings
- Assessment and plan
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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