ICD-10 Coding for Low White Blood Cell Count(D72.819, D72.818)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Low White Blood Cell Count. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Low White Blood Cell Count
D70-D77Primary Range
Other disorders of blood and blood-forming organs
This range includes codes for various blood disorders, including leukopenia.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| D72.819 | Decreased white blood cell count, unspecified | Use when leukopenia is present without a specified cause. |
|
| D72.818 | Other specified decreased white blood cell count | Use when leukopenia is due to a specified cause like drug use. |
|
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 low white blood cell count
Essential facts and insights about Low White Blood Cell Count
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for low white blood cells count
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- WBC <4.0 x10³/μL with no identified cause
Applicable To
- Leukopenia NOS
Excludes
- Neutropenia (D70.9)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- WBC <4.0 x10³/μL without specific cause
- Two consecutive low readings >24h apart
Code-Specific Risks
- Risk of using unspecified code affecting DRG weights.
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies 'low' rather than 'elevated' WBC.
D72.818 - Other specified decreased white blood cell count
Use when leukopenia is due to a specified cause like drug use.
Applicable To
- Drug-induced leukopenia
Clinical Validation Requirements
- WBC <4.0 x10³/μL with documented cause
- Temporal relationship with drug administration
Coding Notes
Sequence after T-code for adverse effect.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Adverse effect of antineoplastic and immunosuppressive drugs
T45.1x5ADifferential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Elevated white blood cell count, unspecified
D72.829Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Low White Blood Cell Count to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code D72.819.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to incorrect treatment decisions., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential for reduced reimbursement.
Mitigation Strategy
Always include specific lab values, Clarify cause if known
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect DRG assignment may reduce payment., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation specifies 'low' WBC for D72.819.
Impact
Using unspecified codes can lead to audit flags.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation supports specific 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 Low White Blood Cell Count, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Low White Blood Cell Count
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Low White Blood Cell Count. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Hematology Consultation
Specialty: HematologyRequired Elements
- Current WBC count
- ANC
- Documented cause if known
- Treatment plan
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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