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ICD-10 Coding for Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase(K70.10, R94.5)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

GGTGamma-GT

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase

K70-K77Primary Range

Diseases of the liver

This range includes conditions related to liver diseases where GGT testing is commonly used.

Abnormal results of liver function studies

Used for abnormal liver function tests, including elevated GGT without a specific diagnosis.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
K70.10Alcoholic hepatitis without ascitesUse when alcoholic hepatitis is confirmed with elevated GGT and alcohol use.
  • GGT >100 U/L
  • AST:ALT ratio ≥2:1
  • Documented alcohol intake
R94.5Abnormal results of liver function studiesUse when liver function tests are abnormal but no specific diagnosis is made.
  • GGT > ULN but <100 U/L
  • Normal bilirubin/albumin

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 GGT

Essential facts and insights about Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase

The ICD-10 code for elevated gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) without a specific diagnosis is R94.5.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for gamma glutamyl transferase

Alcoholic hepatitis without ascites
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of elevated GGT and alcohol use

Applicable To

  • Alcoholic liver disease

Excludes

  • Chronic hepatitis (K73.-)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • GGT >100 U/L
  • AST:ALT ratio ≥2:1
  • Documented alcohol intake

Code-Specific Risks

  • Misclassification if alcohol use is not documented

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation of alcohol use to support coding.

Ancillary Codes

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

Abnormal liver function test

R94.5
Use when GGT is elevated but no specific liver disease is diagnosed.

Differential Codes

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

Chronic hepatitis, unspecified

K73.9
Use K73.9 for chronic hepatitis without alcohol involvement.

Liver disease, unspecified

K76.9
Use K76.9 when liver disease is suspected but not confirmed.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code K70.10.

Impact

Clinical: Misdiagnosis of liver condition, Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards, Financial: Denial of claims

Mitigation Strategy

Always ask about alcohol use in liver disease cases, Document findings clearly

Impact

Reimbursement: Higher denial rates for unspecified codes, Compliance: Increased audit risk, Data Quality: Poor data quality and clinical accuracy

Mitigation Strategy

Use specific codes like K70.10 when criteria are met.

Impact

High audit risk when using unspecified codes without supporting documentation.

Mitigation Strategy

Use specific codes and ensure documentation supports the diagnosis.

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 Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Hepatology progress note

Specialty: Gastroenterology

Required Elements

  • Diagnosis
  • GGT levels
  • AST:ALT ratio
  • Alcohol use history

Example Documentation

Patient presents with elevated GGT of 250 U/L, AST:ALT ratio of 2:1, and reports consuming 6 beers/day.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Elevated liver enzymes.
Good Documentation Example
GGT 250 U/L with AST:ALT ratio 2:1, jaundice, and RUQ tenderness. Rule out biliary obstruction vs. alcoholic hepatitis.
Explanation
The good example provides specific lab values and clinical context, supporting the diagnosis.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase? Ask your questions below.

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