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ICD-10 Coding for Increased C-Reactive Protein(R79.82)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Increased C-Reactive Protein. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Elevated CRPHigh C-Reactive Protein

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Increased C-Reactive Protein

R70-R79Primary Range

Abnormal findings on examination of blood, without diagnosis

This range includes codes for abnormal blood test results, including elevated CRP.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for increased CRP

Essential facts and insights about Increased C-Reactive Protein

The ICD-10 code for increased C-reactive protein is R79.82, used as a secondary code.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for increased c-reactive protein

Elevated C-reactive protein (CRP)
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • CRP level above normal range with no specific diagnosis

documentation Criteria

  • Lack of specific diagnosis for elevated CRP

Applicable To

  • Elevated CRP levels

Excludes

  • CRP elevation due to specific conditions like infections or autoimmune diseases

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • CRP level >0.9 mg/dL
  • Documentation of test methodology (e.g., nephelometry)

Code-Specific Risks

  • Using R79.82 as a primary code
  • Lack of documentation linking CRP to a specific condition

Coding Notes

  • Always document the underlying cause of CRP elevation.

Ancillary Codes

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

Rheumatoid arthritis with CRP elevation

M05.79
Use when CRP elevation is due to rheumatoid arthritis.

Differential Codes

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

Encounter for screening for cardiovascular disorders

Z13.6
Use Z13.6 for hs-CRP tests related to cardiovascular risk assessment.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Increased C-Reactive Protein to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code R79.82.

Impact

Clinical: Inadequate clinical assessment, Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards, Financial: Potential claim denials

Mitigation Strategy

Always include CRP level in lab results, Ensure correlation with clinical findings

Impact

Reimbursement: Claims may be denied if R79.82 is used as a primary code., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate representation of patient condition.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure a primary code for the underlying condition is used first.

Impact

Lack of specific documentation linking CRP to a condition.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure all CRP elevations are linked to a documented clinical condition.

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 Increased C-Reactive Protein, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Increased C-Reactive Protein

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Increased C-Reactive Protein. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Rheumatology Assessment

Specialty: Rheumatology

Required Elements

  • CRP level with units
  • Testing methodology
  • Correlation with joint symptoms

Example Documentation

CRP 14.2 mg/L (ref <0.9) via nephelometry correlated with new onset symmetrical polyarthritis.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Elevated CRP noted.
Good Documentation Example
CRP 14.2 mg/L (ref <0.9) via nephelometry correlated with joint swelling.
Explanation
The good example provides quantitative data and clinical correlation.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Increased C-Reactive Protein? Ask your questions below.

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