ICD-10 Coding for Thyroiditis(E06.3, E06.1, E03.9)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Thyroiditis. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Thyroiditis
E06Primary Range
Thyroiditis
This range includes all forms of thyroiditis, including autoimmune, subacute, and chronic types.
Poisoning by, adverse effect of and underdosing of thyroid hormones
This range includes codes for underdosing of thyroid hormones, which can be relevant in thyroiditis management.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| E06.3 | Autoimmune thyroiditis | Use when autoimmune etiology is confirmed by lab tests or imaging. |
|
| E06.1 | Subacute thyroiditis | Use when there is evidence of subacute inflammation and pain. |
|
| E03.9 | Hypothyroidism, unspecified | Use when hypothyroidism is present but not further specified. |
|
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 Hashimoto's thyroiditis
Essential facts and insights about Thyroiditis
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for thyroiditis
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of elevated anti-TPO antibodies
Applicable To
- Hashimoto's thyroiditis
Excludes
- Acute thyroiditis (E06.0)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Elevated anti-TPO antibodies
- Ultrasound showing heterogeneous echotexture
Code-Specific Risks
- Misclassification if antibodies are not tested
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies autoimmune origin to avoid unspecified coding.
E06.1 - Subacute thyroiditis
Use when there is evidence of subacute inflammation and pain.
Applicable To
- De Quervain's thyroiditis
Excludes
- Autoimmune thyroiditis (E06.3)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Elevated ESR
- Tender thyroid gland
Coding Notes
Document pain and inflammation to support coding.
E03.9 - Hypothyroidism, unspecified
Use when hypothyroidism is present but not further specified.
Excludes
- Congenital hypothyroidism (E03.0)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Elevated TSH levels
Coding Notes
Specify the cause of hypothyroidism if known.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Underdosing of thyroid hormones
T38.1X6ADocumentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Thyroiditis to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code E06.3.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to incorrect diagnosis and treatment., Regulatory: Increases risk of audit failure., Financial: Potential for denied claims due to lack of specificity.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure lab results are included in the patient's record., Use templates to guide documentation.
Impact
Reimbursement: May result in lower reimbursement due to unspecified coding., Compliance: Increases risk of audit due to lack of specificity., Data Quality: Reduces accuracy of clinical data.
Mitigation Strategy
Use E06.3 for autoimmune thyroiditis and E03.9 for hypothyroidism if present.
Impact
Using E06.9 when specific type is known.
Mitigation Strategy
Educate providers on the importance of specifying thyroiditis type.
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 Thyroiditis, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Thyroiditis
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Thyroiditis. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Hashimoto's thyroiditis with hypothyroidism
Specialty: EndocrinologyRequired Elements
- TSH and free T4 levels
- Anti-TPO antibody levels
- Ultrasound findings
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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