ICD-10 Coding for Elevated Lactate(E87.2, E87.2A, E87.2N)
Learn about ICD-10 coding for elevated lactate, including code R74.02 for hyperlactatemia and E87.2 for lactic acidosis. Understand documentation requirements and coding pitfalls.
Complete code families applicable to Elevated Lactate
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| R74.02 | Elevated lactic acid level | Use when lactate is elevated but does not meet criteria for acidosis or shock. |
|
| E87.2 | Acidosis | Use when lactic acidosis is present, not part of septic shock. |
|
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
Essential facts and insights aboutElevated Lactate
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common issues when documenting Elevated Lactate.
Documenting 'elevated lactate' without context
Impact
Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Financial: Potential for denied claims.
Mitigation
Always include clinical context., Specify if acidosis or shock is present.
Coding E87.2 with R65.21
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to denied claims., Compliance: Violates Excludes1 note., Data Quality: Impacts clinical data accuracy.
Mitigation
Use R65.21 alone for septic shock.
Incorrect coding of lactic acidosis
Impact
Coding E87.2 with septic shock can trigger audits.
Mitigation
Review Excludes1 notes and ensure correct code selection.