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ICD-10 Coding for Subclinical Hypothyroidism(E02, E03.9)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Subclinical Hypothyroidism. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Mild HypothyroidismEarly Hypothyroidism

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Subclinical Hypothyroidism

E00-E07Primary Range

Disorders of thyroid gland

This range includes all thyroid-related disorders, including subclinical hypothyroidism.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
E02Subclinical iodine-deficiency hypothyroidismUse this code when subclinical hypothyroidism is confirmed to be due to iodine deficiency.
  • TSH levels between 4.5 and 10 mIU/L
  • Normal free T4 levels
  • Documented iodine deficiency
E03.9Hypothyroidism, unspecifiedUse when the cause of hypothyroidism is not specified or known.
  • TSH levels above normal range
  • Normal or low free T4 levels

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 subclinical hypothyroidism

Essential facts and insights about Subclinical Hypothyroidism

The ICD-10 code for subclinical hypothyroidism due to iodine deficiency is E02. For unspecified causes, use E03.9.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for subclinical hypothyroidism

Subclinical iodine-deficiency hypothyroidism
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • TSH levels between 4.5 and 10 mIU/L with normal T4

documentation Criteria

  • Explicit mention of iodine deficiency

Applicable To

  • Subclinical hypothyroidism due to iodine deficiency

Excludes

  • Overt hypothyroidism
  • Hypothyroidism due to other causes

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • TSH levels between 4.5 and 10 mIU/L
  • Normal free T4 levels
  • Documented iodine deficiency

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrectly using E02 without documented iodine deficiency

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies iodine deficiency to use E02.

Ancillary Codes

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

Screening for thyroid dysfunction

Z13.29
Use when screening for thyroid issues without a prior diagnosis.

Differential Codes

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

Hypothyroidism, unspecified

E03.9
Use E03.9 when the cause of hypothyroidism is not specified or known.

Subclinical iodine-deficiency hypothyroidism

E02
Use E02 when iodine deficiency is documented.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Subclinical Hypothyroidism to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code E02.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment decisions., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential claim denials.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure lab results are reviewed and documented., Educate providers on documentation requirements.

Impact

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

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure documentation explicitly states iodine deficiency.

Impact

Failure to document iodine deficiency when coding E02.

Mitigation Strategy

Implement regular documentation audits.

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 Subclinical Hypothyroidism, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Subclinical Hypothyroidism

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Subclinical Hypothyroidism. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Subclinical hypothyroidism with iodine deficiency

Specialty: Endocrinology

Required Elements

  • TSH and T4 levels
  • Iodine deficiency documentation
  • Symptom assessment

Example Documentation

Patient presents with TSH 6.0 mIU/L and normal T4. Urinary iodine is low. Diagnosis: Subclinical iodine-deficiency hypothyroidism (E02).

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Subclinical hypothyroidism.
Good Documentation Example
TSH 6.0 mIU/L, normal T4, low urinary iodine. Diagnosis: Subclinical iodine-deficiency hypothyroidism (E02).
Explanation
The good example provides specific lab values and confirms iodine deficiency, supporting the use of E02.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Subclinical Hypothyroidism? Ask your questions below.

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