ICD-10 Coding for Leukocytes in Urine(R82.90, N39.0)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Leukocytes in Urine. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Leukocytes in Urine
R82.90-R82.998Primary Range
Abnormal findings on examination of urine, unspecified
This range includes codes for abnormal findings in urine, including leukocytes without a specified cause.
Urinary tract infection, site not specified
This code is used when leukocyturia is associated with a confirmed urinary tract infection.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| R82.90 | Unspecified abnormal findings in urine | Use when leukocytes are found in urine without a confirmed underlying condition. |
|
| N39.0 | Urinary tract infection, site not specified | Use when leukocyturia is confirmed to be due to a UTI. |
|
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 leukocytes in urine
Essential facts and insights about Leukocytes in Urine
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for leukocytes in urine
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- WBC count in urine above normal thresholds without symptoms
coding Criteria
- No confirmed UTI or other specific diagnosis
Applicable To
- Leukocyturia without a confirmed diagnosis
Excludes
- Confirmed urinary tract infections (N39.0)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- WBC >5/HPF in women, >2/HPF in men
- Absence of UTI symptoms
Code-Specific Risks
- Misuse when UTI is confirmed
- Lack of specific documentation
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies the absence of symptoms and any additional findings.
N39.0 - Urinary tract infection, site not specified
Use when leukocyturia is confirmed to be due to a UTI.
Applicable To
- UTI with leukocyturia
Excludes
- Asymptomatic bacteriuria (R82.90)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Positive leukocyte esterase
- Positive nitrites
- Presence of UTI symptoms
Coding Notes
Ensure culture results and symptoms are documented.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Other abnormal findings in urine
R82.998Differential 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 Leukocytes in Urine to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code R82.90.
Impact
Clinical: Leads to misdiagnosis or inappropriate treatment., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential for claim denials.
Mitigation Strategy
Use structured templates for urinalysis documentation, Ensure all findings are quantified and specified
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to denied claims., Compliance: Violates ICD-10 coding guidelines., Data Quality: Affects accuracy of patient records.
Mitigation Strategy
Use N39.0 as the primary code when UTI is confirmed.
Impact
Using R82.90 instead of N39.0 when UTI is confirmed.
Mitigation Strategy
Implement coding audits and training on UTI documentation.
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 Leukocytes in Urine, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Leukocytes in Urine
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Leukocytes in Urine. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Primary Care Evaluation of Leukocyturia
Specialty: Primary CareRequired Elements
- Chief complaint
- Urinalysis results
- Symptoms or lack thereof
- Assessment and plan
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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