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ICD-10 Coding for Thyroid Nodule(E04.1, E05.10)

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

Also known as:

Thyroid LumpThyroid Swellingthyroid cystthyroid lesion

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Thyroid Nodule

E04.0-E04.9Primary Range

Other nontoxic goiter

This range includes codes for nontoxic thyroid nodules, which are the most common presentations.

Thyrotoxicosis [hyperthyroidism]

This range includes codes for toxic thyroid nodules, which are less common but clinically significant.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
E04.1Nontoxic single thyroid noduleUse when a single thyroid nodule is present without signs of hyperthyroidism.
  • Normal TSH levels
  • Ultrasound showing single nodule
E05.10Thyrotoxicosis with toxic single thyroid nodule without crisisUse when a single thyroid nodule is present with suppressed TSH and hyperthyroid symptoms.
  • Suppressed TSH levels
  • Symptoms of hyperthyroidism

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 nontoxic thyroid nodule

Essential facts and insights about Thyroid Nodule

The ICD-10 code for a nontoxic single thyroid nodule is E04.1, used when no hyperthyroidism is present.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for thyroid nodule

Nontoxic single thyroid nodule
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Normal TSH levels and single nodule on ultrasound

Applicable To

  • Single thyroid nodule without hyperthyroidism

Excludes

  • Toxic single thyroid nodule (E05.10)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Normal TSH levels
  • Ultrasound showing single nodule

Code-Specific Risks

  • Misclassification if hyperthyroidism is present

Coding Notes

  • Ensure TSH levels are documented to differentiate from toxic nodules.

Ancillary Codes

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

Palpitations

R00.1
Use if palpitations are documented alongside the nodule.

Tachycardia, unspecified

R00.0
Use if tachycardia is documented alongside the nodule.

Differential Codes

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

Thyrotoxicosis with toxic single thyroid nodule without crisis

E05.10
Presence of suppressed TSH and hyperthyroid symptoms

Nontoxic single thyroid nodule

E04.1
Normal TSH levels and absence of hyperthyroid symptoms

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Thyroid Nodule to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code E04.1.

Impact

Clinical: Ambiguity in treatment planning., Regulatory: Potential audit issues., Financial: Claims may be denied for lack of specificity.

Mitigation Strategy

Always document the side of the thyroid affected., Use templates that prompt for laterality.

Impact

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

Mitigation Strategy

Use E05.10 if TSH is suppressed and hyperthyroid symptoms are present.

Impact

Incorrect coding of thyroid nodules can lead to audits.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure TSH levels and nodule characteristics are documented.

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

Documentation Templates for Thyroid Nodule

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

Single Nontoxic Thyroid Nodule

Specialty: Endocrinology

Required Elements

  • Nodule size and location
  • TSH levels
  • Ultrasound findings

Example Documentation

Patient presents with a 2.5 cm nodule in the right thyroid lobe. TSH is 1.5 mIU/L. Ultrasound confirms a single nodule.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Thyroid nodule present.
Good Documentation Example
2.5 cm nodule in right lobe, TSH 1.5 mIU/L, no hyperthyroid symptoms.
Explanation
The good example provides specific details necessary for accurate coding.

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

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