ICD-10 Coding for Elevated Liver Enzymes(R74.01, K71.1)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Elevated Liver Enzymes. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Elevated Liver Enzymes
R74.0-R74.9Primary Range
Abnormal serum enzyme levels
Covers general abnormal liver function tests including elevated transaminases.
Other liver diseases
Includes conditions like NAFLD that may cause elevated liver enzymes.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| R74.01 | Elevated liver transaminases | Use when ALT/AST levels are elevated without a known cause. |
|
| K71.1 | Toxic liver disease with hepatic necrosis | Use when liver enzyme elevation is due to a known toxic agent. |
|
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 elevated liver enzymes
Essential facts and insights about Elevated Liver Enzymes
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for elevated liver enzyme
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Elevated ALT/AST without known etiology
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Documented ALT/AST levels above normal range
- No identified underlying cause
Code-Specific Risks
- Misuse when an underlying cause is known
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies the absence of a known cause.
K71.1 - Toxic liver disease with hepatic necrosis
Use when liver enzyme elevation is due to a known toxic agent.
Applicable To
- Drug-induced liver injury
Excludes
- Alcoholic liver disease (K70.-)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Documented exposure to a hepatotoxic agent
- Clinical evidence of liver injury
Coding Notes
Always document the specific toxic agent involved.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Fatty (change of) liver, not elsewhere classified
K76.0Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Elevated Liver Enzymes to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code R74.01.
Impact
Clinical: Inaccurate diagnosis and treatment plans., Regulatory: Potential audit failures., Financial: Incorrect billing and reimbursement.
Mitigation Strategy
Require specific enzyme levels in documentation.
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to incorrect DRG assignment., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.
Mitigation Strategy
Identify and code the underlying cause first, such as K76.0 for NAFLD.
Impact
Failure to code the primary cause first.
Mitigation Strategy
Regular training on ICD-10 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 Elevated Liver Enzymes, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Elevated Liver Enzymes
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Elevated Liver Enzymes. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Patient with elevated liver enzymes due to NAFLD
Specialty: GastroenterologyRequired Elements
- ALT/AST levels
- Imaging results
- Etiology confirmation
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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