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ICD-10 Coding for Sarcopenia(M62.84)

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

Also known as:

Age-related muscle lossMuscle wasting

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Sarcopenia

M60-M63Primary Range

Disorders of muscles

This range includes sarcopenia, which is classified under muscle disorders.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for sarcopenia

Essential facts and insights about Sarcopenia

The ICD-10 code for sarcopenia is M62.84, used for age-related muscle loss.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for sarcopenia

Sarcopenia
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of low muscle mass and strength per EWGSOP2 criteria.

coding Criteria

  • Code underlying condition first if sarcopenia is secondary.

Applicable To

  • Age-related muscle loss

Excludes

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • DXA or BIA showing low muscle mass
  • Handgrip strength test results
  • Chair stand test results

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrect sequencing with underlying conditions
  • Lack of specific muscle mass and strength documentation

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation includes quantitative measures of muscle mass and strength.

Ancillary Codes

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

Abnormal gait

R26.81
Use when gait speed is ≤0.8 m/s.

Differential Codes

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

Cachexia

R64
Cachexia involves inflammatory markers and significant weight loss.

Other specified myopathies

G72.89
Myopathy involves elevated CK levels and EMG changes.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Sarcopenia to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code M62.84.

Impact

Clinical: Inaccurate diagnosis of sarcopenia., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential claim denials.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure muscle mass is measured and documented., Use standardized tests like DXA or BIA.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect sequencing can lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.

Mitigation Strategy

Always code the underlying condition first if sarcopenia is secondary.

Impact

Inadequate documentation of muscle mass and strength.

Mitigation Strategy

Use standardized assessment tools and document results clearly.

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

Documentation Templates for Sarcopenia

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

Geriatric assessment

Specialty: Geriatrics

Required Elements

  • Muscle mass measurement
  • Strength assessment
  • Functional performance test

Example Documentation

Patient exhibits sarcopenia with DXA ALMI 5.2 kg/m², grip strength 14 kg.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Elderly with muscle loss
Good Documentation Example
82M with EWGSOP2-confirmed sarcopenia: BIA SMI 6.8 kg/m², grip strength 24 kg.
Explanation
The good example provides specific measurements and criteria confirmation.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Sarcopenia? Ask your questions below.

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