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ICD-10 Coding for Elevated Transaminase Level(R74.01)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Elevated Transaminase Level. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Elevated Liver EnzymesIncreased ALT/AST Levels

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Elevated Transaminase Level

R70-R79Primary Range

Abnormal findings on examination of blood, without diagnosis

This range includes codes for abnormal blood chemistry findings, including elevated liver enzymes.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for elevated transaminase levels

Essential facts and insights about Elevated Transaminase Level

The ICD-10 code for elevated transaminase levels is R74.01, used when ALT/AST levels are elevated without a known cause.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for elevated transaminase level

Elevation of levels of liver transaminase levels
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • ALT/AST levels above normal without a known cause

coding Criteria

  • No underlying condition identified

Applicable To

  • Elevated ALT
  • Elevated AST

Excludes

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Documented ALT and/or AST levels above the normal range
  • Absence of a known underlying cause

Code-Specific Risks

  • Using this code as a principal diagnosis when an underlying cause is identified

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies ALT/AST levels and any suspected etiology.

Ancillary Codes

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

Encounter for screening for other viral diseases

Z11.59
Use when screening for viral hepatitis is performed.

Differential Codes

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

Abnormal liver function study

R89.0
Use R89.0 for unspecified abnormal liver function tests.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Elevated Transaminase Level to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code R74.01.

Impact

Clinical: Lack of specificity can hinder diagnosis and treatment., Regulatory: May not meet documentation standards., Financial: Potential for denied claims due to insufficient documentation.

Mitigation Strategy

Always specify which liver enzymes are elevated., Include numerical values for ALT/AST.

Impact

Reimbursement: May lead to incorrect DRG assignment and reduced reimbursement., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.

Mitigation Strategy

Code the underlying condition first, followed by R74.01.

Impact

Coding R74.01 without specifying ALT/AST levels can trigger audits.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure documentation includes specific enzyme levels and any suspected etiology.

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 Transaminase Level, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Elevated Transaminase Level

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Elevated Transaminase Level. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Patient with elevated liver enzymes and suspected drug-induced liver injury

Specialty: Gastroenterology

Required Elements

  • Document ALT/AST levels
  • Suspected cause (e.g., medication)
  • Plan for follow-up testing

Example Documentation

Patient presents with ALT 180 IU/L and AST 200 IU/L. Suspected drug-induced injury due to recent medication change. Plan: Discontinue medication, repeat LFTs in 72 hours.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Abnormal LFTs noted.
Good Documentation Example
ALT 220 IU/L, AST 180 IU/L, suspected drug-induced hepatotoxicity due to recent statin initiation.
Explanation
The good example specifies enzyme levels and a suspected cause, aiding in accurate coding.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Elevated Transaminase Level? Ask your questions below.

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