ICD-10 Coding for Vitamin C Deficiency(E54, E64.2)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Vitamin C Deficiency. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Vitamin C Deficiency
E50-E64Primary Range
Nutritional deficiencies
This range includes codes for various nutritional deficiencies, including vitamin C deficiency.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| E54 | Ascorbic acid deficiency | Use when there is an active deficiency of vitamin C with clinical symptoms. |
|
| E64.2 | Sequelae of vitamin C deficiency | Use for chronic sequelae following a past vitamin C deficiency. |
|
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 vitamin C deficiency
Essential facts and insights about Vitamin C Deficiency
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for deficiency of vitamin c
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of symptoms like bleeding gums and low plasma vitamin C levels.
Applicable To
- Scurvy
Excludes
- Sequelae of vitamin C deficiency (E64.2)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Plasma vitamin C level below 0.2 mg/dL
- Symptoms such as bleeding gums, perifollicular hemorrhages, joint pain
Code-Specific Risks
- Confusion with sequelae codes
- Incorrect documentation of symptoms
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies 'scurvy' or 'ascorbic acid deficiency' with supporting lab results.
E64.2 - Sequelae of vitamin C deficiency
Use for chronic sequelae following a past vitamin C deficiency.
Applicable To
- Chronic sequelae of scurvy
Excludes
- Active vitamin C deficiency (E54)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Documented history of resolved scurvy with persistent anatomical or functional deficits
Coding Notes
Do not use with E54 for the same episode.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Spontaneous ecchymoses
R23.3Differential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Vitamin C Deficiency to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code E54.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to misdiagnosis., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential claim denials.
Mitigation Strategy
Use specific terms like 'scurvy' or 'ascorbic acid deficiency'., Include lab results and detailed symptoms.
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to denied claims., Compliance: Violates ICD-10 coding rules., Data Quality: Impacts accuracy of patient records.
Mitigation Strategy
Use E54 for active deficiency and E64.2 for sequelae, not together.
Impact
Coding E54 without lab results or specific symptoms.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure all documentation includes lab results and detailed symptom descriptions.
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 Vitamin C Deficiency, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Vitamin C Deficiency
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Vitamin C Deficiency. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Emergency Department Presentation
Specialty: Emergency MedicineRequired Elements
- History of present illness
- Dietary history
- Physical examination findings
- Laboratory results
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
Need help with ICD-10 coding for Vitamin C Deficiency? Ask your questions below.