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ICD-10 Coding for Thyroid Enlargement(E04.9, E04.2)

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

Also known as:

GoiterThyroid SwellingEnlarged Thyroid

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Thyroid Enlargement

E04-E05Primary Range

Disorders of thyroid gland

This range includes codes for various types of goiter, both toxic and non-toxic, which are relevant for documenting thyroid enlargement.

Thyroiditis

This range is relevant for conditions where thyroiditis is the underlying cause of thyroid enlargement.

Other disorders of thyroid

Includes conditions like dyshormonogenesis that can lead to thyroid enlargement.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
E04.9Nontoxic goiter, unspecifiedUse when the type of goiter is not specified and thyroid function is normal.
  • Physical exam showing thyroid enlargement
  • Normal thyroid function tests
E04.2Nontoxic multinodular goiterUse when multiple nodules are confirmed and thyroid function is normal.
  • Ultrasound showing multiple nodules
  • Normal thyroid function tests

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 thyroid enlargement

Essential facts and insights about Thyroid Enlargement

The ICD-10 code for unspecified thyroid enlargement is E04.9. For multinodular goiter, use E04.2.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for thyroid enlargement

Nontoxic goiter, unspecified
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Thyroid enlargement without symptoms of hyperthyroidism

Applicable To

  • Enlarged thyroid
  • Simple goiter

Excludes

  • Toxic goiter (E05.-)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Physical exam showing thyroid enlargement
  • Normal thyroid function tests

Code-Specific Risks

  • Overuse when more specific codes apply

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies the type of goiter if known.

Ancillary Codes

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

Encounter for general adult medical examination without abnormal findings

Z00.00
Use for routine check-ups where thyroid enlargement is noted incidentally.

Localized swelling, mass and lump, neck

R22.1
Use to document physical findings of neck mass.

Differential Codes

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

Thyrotoxic crisis or storm

E05.21
Presence of hyperthyroid symptoms and lab findings.

Thyrotoxicosis with toxic multinodular goiter

E05.20
Presence of hyperthyroid symptoms and lab findings.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Thyroid Enlargement to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code E04.9.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment decisions., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential for denied claims due to lack of specificity.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure detailed examination and imaging results are documented, Use specific terminology for nodularity

Impact

Reimbursement: May result in lower reimbursement due to lack of specificity., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines for specificity., Data Quality: Decreases accuracy of clinical data.

Mitigation Strategy

Use E04.2 for multinodular goiter if nodules are confirmed.

Impact

Risk of audits due to non-specific coding of thyroid enlargement.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure documentation includes specific details about nodularity and thyroid function.

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

Documentation Templates for Thyroid Enlargement

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

Routine Examination with Thyroid Enlargement

Specialty: Endocrinology

Required Elements

  • Patient history
  • Physical examination findings
  • Laboratory results
  • Imaging studies

Example Documentation

Patient presents for routine check-up. Noted 3cm firm nodule in right thyroid lobe. TSH 1.5 μIU/mL, free T4 normal. Ultrasound confirms multinodular goiter.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Thyroid enlarged, follow-up needed.
Good Documentation Example
3cm firm nodule in right lobe, TSH 1.5 μIU/mL, ultrasound confirms multinodular goiter.
Explanation
The good example provides specific findings and test results, enabling accurate coding.

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

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