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ICD-10 Coding for Mixed Connective Tissue Disease(M35.1)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Mixed Connective Tissue Disease. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

MCTDSharp Syndrome

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Mixed Connective Tissue Disease

M30-M36Primary Range

Systemic connective tissue disorders

This range includes codes for various systemic connective tissue disorders, including MCTD.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for mixed connective tissue disease

Essential facts and insights about Mixed Connective Tissue Disease

The ICD-10 code for mixed connective tissue disease is M35.1, requiring specific serological and clinical criteria for accurate coding.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for mixed connective tissue disease

Mixed connective tissue disease
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of anti-U1-RNP antibodies and clinical criteria

documentation Criteria

  • Detailed documentation of symptoms and lab results

Applicable To

  • Sharp syndrome

Excludes

  • Systemic lupus erythematosus (M32.9)
  • Scleroderma (M34.9)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Anti-U1-RNP antibodies ≥1:1600
  • Presence of clinical criteria such as synovitis, Raynaud's phenomenon, and sclerodactyly

Code-Specific Risks

  • Misclassification with other connective tissue diseases
  • Incorrect sequencing with manifestation codes

Coding Notes

  • Ensure serological confirmation before coding M35.1.

Ancillary Codes

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

Other specified systemic involvement of connective tissue

M35.89
Use for suspected MCTD not meeting full criteria.

Differential Codes

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

Systemic lupus erythematosus, unspecified

M32.9
Use when lupus-like features are present without anti-U1-RNP antibodies.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Mixed Connective Tissue Disease to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code M35.1.

Impact

Clinical: Misdiagnosis or delayed treatment., Regulatory: Potential audit issues., Financial: Denied claims due to insufficient documentation.

Mitigation Strategy

Use specific clinical terms, Include detailed symptom descriptions

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure anti-U1-RNP antibodies are documented before coding.

Impact

Failure to sequence MCTD and its manifestations correctly.

Mitigation Strategy

Educate coding staff on sequencing rules.

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 Mixed Connective Tissue Disease, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Mixed Connective Tissue Disease

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Mixed Connective Tissue Disease. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Rheumatology Progress Note

Specialty: Rheumatology

Required Elements

  • Subjective symptoms
  • Objective findings
  • Lab results
  • Assessment and plan

Example Documentation

- **Subjective:** Reports Raynaud’s, morning joint stiffness. - **Objective:** Puffy edema, sclerodactyly. - **Labs:** Anti-U1-RNP 1:3200. - **Assessment:** MCTD with ILD. - **Plan:** Start mycophenolate.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient has connective tissue disease.
Good Documentation Example
Patient meets Alarcón-Segovia criteria: anti-U1-RNP 1:3200, synovitis, Raynaud’s, sclerodactyly.
Explanation
The good example provides specific criteria and lab results, supporting the diagnosis.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Mixed Connective Tissue Disease? Ask your questions below.

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