ICD-10 Coding for Hypoalbuminemia(E88.09, R77.0)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Hypoalbuminemia. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Hypoalbuminemia
E88.0-E88.09Primary Range
Disorders of plasma-protein metabolism
This range includes hypoalbuminemia due to metabolic disorders.
Abnormality of albumin
This code is used for isolated hypoalbuminemia findings without a specified metabolic cause.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| E88.09 | Other hypoalbuminemia | Use when hypoalbuminemia is caused by a documented disorder of protein metabolism. |
|
| R77.0 | Abnormality of albumin | Use when hypoalbuminemia is an isolated finding without a specified metabolic cause. |
|
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 hypoalbuminemia
Essential facts and insights about Hypoalbuminemia
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for hypoalbuminemia
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of a metabolic disorder causing hypoalbuminemia
documentation Criteria
- Specific albumin level and metabolic disorder documentation
Applicable To
- Hypoalbuminemia due to metabolic disorders
Excludes
- R77.0 - Abnormality of albumin
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Documentation of specific metabolic disorder
- Albumin level ≤3.4 g/dL
Code-Specific Risks
- Incorrect use when no metabolic disorder is documented
Coding Notes
- Ensure the underlying metabolic disorder is documented to support E88.09.
R77.0 - Abnormality of albumin
Use when hypoalbuminemia is an isolated finding without a specified metabolic cause.
Applicable To
- Isolated hypoalbuminemia
Excludes
- E88.09 - Other hypoalbuminemia
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Albumin level ≤3.4 g/dL
- No documented metabolic disorder
Coding Notes
Ensure no underlying metabolic disorder is documented when using R77.0.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Hypoalbuminemia to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code E88.09.
Impact
Clinical: Inadequate clinical assessment., Regulatory: Potential for audit failures., Financial: Risk of claim denials.
Mitigation Strategy
Always include lab results in patient records., Train staff on documentation standards.
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to claim denials., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.
Mitigation Strategy
Use E88.09 if a metabolic disorder is documented.
Impact
Failure to document underlying causes of hypoalbuminemia.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure comprehensive documentation of all related conditions.
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 Hypoalbuminemia, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Hypoalbuminemia
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Hypoalbuminemia. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Hospital Progress Note
Specialty: Internal MedicineRequired Elements
- Assessment of hypoalbuminemia
- Underlying cause documentation
- Clinical indicators
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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