ICD-10 Coding for Vitamin Deficiency Disorders(E55.9, D51.9)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Vitamin Deficiency Disorders. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Vitamin Deficiency Disorders
E50-E64Primary Range
Nutritional deficiencies
This range includes all nutritional deficiencies, including vitamin D and B12 deficiencies.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| E55.9 | Vitamin D deficiency, unspecified | Use when vitamin D deficiency is confirmed by lab tests but the specific type is not specified. |
|
| D51.9 | Vitamin B12 deficiency anemia, unspecified | Use when B12 deficiency is confirmed by lab tests but the specific type is not specified. |
|
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 vitamin D deficiency
Essential facts and insights about Vitamin Deficiency Disorders
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for vitamin disorder deficiency
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- 25-hydroxyvitamin D level <20 ng/mL
Applicable To
- Hypovitaminosis D
Excludes
- Rickets (E55.0)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- 25-hydroxyvitamin D level <20 ng/mL
Code-Specific Risks
- Using without lab confirmation
Coding Notes
- Ensure lab values are documented to support deficiency diagnosis.
D51.9 - Vitamin B12 deficiency anemia, unspecified
Use when B12 deficiency is confirmed by lab tests but the specific type is not specified.
Applicable To
- B12 deficiency anemia
Excludes
- Pernicious anemia (D51.0)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Serum B12 <200 pg/mL with elevated methylmalonic acid (>0.4 µmol/L)
Coding Notes
Document neurological symptoms if present.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Differential 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 Vitamin Deficiency Disorders to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code E55.9.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential claim denials.
Mitigation Strategy
Always include specific lab values in documentation.
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to denied claims if not supported by lab results., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate patient records.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure lab tests confirm vitamin D deficiency before coding.
Impact
Coding without lab confirmation can trigger audits.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure all deficiency diagnoses are supported by lab results.
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 Vitamin Deficiency Disorders, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Vitamin Deficiency Disorders
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Vitamin Deficiency Disorders. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Vitamin D Deficiency Management
Specialty: EndocrinologyRequired Elements
- 25-hydroxyvitamin D level
- Physical examination findings
- Treatment plan
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
Need help with ICD-10 coding for Vitamin Deficiency Disorders? Ask your questions below.