Understanding Leukocytosis and ICD-10 Coding

Leukocytosis, characterized by an elevated white blood cell count, may indicate underlying infections or inflammatory conditions. This guide provides a thorough overview of relevant ICD-10 codes for leukocytosis and other specified disorders of white blood cells, ensuring accurate documentation and billing.

ICD-10 Code for Leukocytosis and Related Conditions

For general leukocytosis, D72.829 - Elevated white blood cell count, unspecified is used when the cause or specific type is not documented. Below are related codes for elevated white blood cells or specific conditions:

Codes for Elevated White Blood Cell Count (D72.82-)

• D72.820 - Lymphocytosis (symptomatic): Elevated lymphocytes often linked to viral infections.
• D72.821 - Monocytosis (symptomatic): Elevated monocytes, commonly seen with chronic infections.
• D72.822 - Plasmacytosis: An increase in plasma cells.
• D72.823 - Leukemoid reaction: A marked increase in leukocytes that mimics leukemia.
• D72.824 - Basophilia: Elevated basophils, often associated with chronic allergic reactions.
• D72.825 - Bandemia: Increased band neutrophils, which can indicate infection.
• D72.828 - Other elevated white blood cell count
• D72.829 - Elevated white blood cell count, unspecified

Additional Relevant White Blood Cell Disorders

These codes provide further specificity for related conditions:

• D72.1 - Eosinophilia: Includes subtypes like D72.110 - Idiopathic hypereosinophilic syndrome [IHES] and D72.111 - Lymphocytic Variant Hypereosinophilic Syndrome [LHES].
• D72.81 - Decreased white blood cell count: Use specific subcodes like D72.810 - Lymphocytopenia or D72.818 - Other decreased white blood cell count when relevant.

Best Practices for Documenting Leukocytosis

1. Be Specific with Cell Types: Where possible, document the specific type of elevated white blood cells to enhance accuracy.
2. Include Underlying Conditions: Codes related to infections or inflammatory disorders provide a fuller clinical picture.
3. Stay Updated: As ICD-10 codes are updated, refer to official resources to ensure accurate billing.

Resources for Further Learning

1. CDC’s ICD-10-CM Browser: For the latest and most specific ICD-10 codes.
2. American Society of Hematology (ASH): For comprehensive information on blood disorders.
3. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS): For billing guidelines and coding updates.

Disclaimer: This guide is based on the best available research. Refer to official resources and consult certified professionals for the most up-to-date information.