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ICD-10 Coding for Elevated Transaminases(R74.01)

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

Also known as:

Elevated Liver EnzymesTransaminitis

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Elevated Transaminases

R74.0-R74.9Primary Range

Abnormal serum enzyme levels

This range includes codes for elevated liver enzymes, specifically ALT and AST, which are critical for diagnosing liver conditions.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for elevated transaminases

Essential facts and insights about Elevated Transaminases

The ICD-10 code for elevated transaminases is R74.01, used for lab-confirmed elevations of ALT and AST.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for elevated transaminases

Elevation of levels of liver transaminases
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Documented ALT/AST levels above normal range

coding Criteria

  • Use R74.01 for lab-confirmed enzyme elevations

documentation Criteria

  • Include specific enzyme values and potential causes

Applicable To

  • Elevated ALT
  • Elevated AST

Excludes

  • Abnormal liver function studies (R94.5)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Documented ALT/AST levels above normal range
  • Specific values and temporal pattern

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrectly using for imaging studies instead of lab tests

Coding Notes

  • Ensure the underlying cause is documented and coded first.

Ancillary Codes

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

Fatty (change of) liver, not elsewhere classified

K76.0
Use when fatty liver is confirmed as the cause of elevated transaminases.

Differential Codes

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

Abnormal liver function studies

R94.5
Use R94.5 for imaging or functional test abnormalities, not lab tests.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Elevated Transaminases to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code R74.01.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to misdiagnosis or delayed treatment., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential claim denials due to insufficient documentation.

Mitigation Strategy

Document specific enzyme levels and potential causes., Use templates to ensure comprehensive documentation.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to claim denials., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate data on liver enzyme elevations.

Mitigation Strategy

Use R74.01 for enzyme elevations; R94.5 only for imaging/functional studies.

Impact

Using R94.5 instead of R74.01 for lab tests.

Mitigation Strategy

Educate staff on the correct use of codes for lab vs. imaging studies.

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

Documentation Templates for Elevated Transaminases

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

Elevated transaminases due to NAFLD

Specialty: Gastroenterology

Required Elements

  • History of present illness
  • Lab results
  • Imaging findings
  • Assessment and plan

Example Documentation

Assessment: Elevated transaminases (ALT 120 U/L, AST 95 U/L) likely due to NAFLD. BMI 32, hepatic steatosis on ultrasound.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient has elevated LFTs. Will monitor.
Good Documentation Example
Elevated transaminases (ALT 120 U/L, AST 95 U/L) likely due to NAFLD. BMI 32, hepatic steatosis on ultrasound.
Explanation
The good example provides specific lab values and links them to a confirmed diagnosis.

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

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